March 9, 2006 -- TAMPA -
"Bud Selig's mission is clear now, and simple: He has to protect The Number. He has to make certain "755" remains the gold standard for power hitters for as long as he can, until a ballplayer approaching Henry Aaron's skill, talent, and on-field integrity reaches the doorstep the right way.
These are the days that will define Selig's legacy. Barry Bonds is the noose that strangles his game, and will for as long as he is permitted to take aim at what always has been the sport's holy grail. Seven-fifty-five is more than just a number. Starting right now, it is a sacrament."
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Bullshit. Unless Congress steps in, which is what Selig is hoping for, ESPN already has the blockparty planned for 756. He hears it from them every other day. Ratings. Fame. Fortune. Hard for a used-car dealer to thumb his nose at such riches, and he will not.
Last season, EVERY media outlet in the free world followed Bonds like the apostles waiting for that water into wine deal. That's when they weren't bashing him for being a drug addict. He was Mr. Shitski until the next home run when he'd suddenly become Mr. BIGshitski. They can't help themselves, because they're addicted too.
Then there's the race-card. Lay me some odds on the loons NOT screaming to the high heavens if a black man is sentenced without "due-process"?
If he's smart. Bonds passes Ruth then retires. Steps aside for the other black man ahead of him. The media gets all weepy, and he's a hero again. He writes his memoirs explaining how it was all a misunderstanding, and how he NEVER touched an illegal substance, but gave it up for the good of the game, all of mankind, Mom and apple pie.
Makes millions, then MORE millions when they make the TV Movie about his life. Fades into semi-obscurity save for the occasional trip to stroke Leno and Letterman's ego. After giving Brian Gumballs the exclusive, of course.
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