MLB: The Hypocrisy of the Forgiven PED Players
By David Hill
Unlike David Ortiz, Bartolo Colon was actually suspended for PED usage, being banned for 50 games in 2012, just eight days before Melky Cabrera was also suspended for using the same substance. Yet, like Ortiz, Colon’s past transgressions have been forgiven by baseball fans everywhere.
Perhaps a part of that spirit of forgiveness is due to his appearance. Listed at 285 lbs, Colon is likely at least 50 pounds heavier. Yet, that rotund appearance has not mattered, as he has somehow found success pounding the strike zone with a low 90’s fastball. His exploits on the basepaths and in the batter’s box are almost immediately GIF worthy, and when he hit that home run a couple months ago, the baseball universe stood and cheered.
Yet, his PED usage, and his links to Biogenesis, have been systematically ignored. Maybe it is because Colon strikes people as being nothing more than a cartoon character, but his past should still be considered. After all, Colon sat out the 2010 season because no one had interest in a pitcher in his late 30’s with a 4.19 ERA and a 1.444 WHiP.
Since that time, Colon has become a viable innings eater, and a player who became thoroughly beloved. He may not be on the same level as Ortiz, but those questions about PED usage, especially given his performance since his return, have to be asked. Those questions, however, fall upon deaf ears.
Another All Star this season, Bartolo Colon is a gift from the baseball gods when it comes to unintentional comedy on the diamond. However, let us not pretend that Colon is just a fat goofy fellow who is getting by on his own ability. One certainly has to question where this recent run has come from.
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