Another Way Steroids in Baseball Impacts You

We all know that steroids in baseball is bad. While it may make the game more exciting for some, it puts the players' lives at risk. I know some will say they are adults making their own decisions, but how about the 17-18 year old kid. He turns to steroids to give him a better chance to make the Bigs. The temptation is even greater for Latin players. Many of them live in impoverished regions. Baseball is their one shot at a better life. I don't condone the cheating, but I certainly understand it. However, only a small percentage of people try out for baseball, and thankfully a smaller amount turn to steroids.

So what is this mysterious way steroids in baseball impacts me you say? Simple. Not everybody collects baseball cards, but a lot of people have a baseball collection. I remember some of my favorite cards growing up...McGwir*, Cansec*, etc. Think their rookie cards are worth as much as before the steroid scandal came to light? Think again. I have Barry B*nds and Sammy S*sa rookie cards. While they are still worth something, they aren't worth what the home run champ* and 600 HR hitter's rookie card should be worth. Sure, the amount of cards that were printed, especially the 1987 Topps series that features B*nds' rookie card, is ridiculous. They flooded the market that year. However, I'm sure that's only part of the reason B*rry's card won't be worth what the stats should command. If McGwir*, S*sa, and Palmeir* don't ever make it to the Hall of Fame, their cards won't reach their potential.

So is this the end of the world? No. Most people aren't banking on their baseball card collection for retirement. However, it does tarnish some of the joys of your youth. I remember getting Cansec*'s rookie card at a card show. I was thrilled. It was his '86 Fleer I believe. I kept it in protective casing in hopes that it would be very valuable some day. So much for that. I guess we can consider that the cards wouldn't be worth as much if the players didn't cheat to get those bloated numbers. Just thought I'd point out another discouraging effect of steroids.

OK, my quarter ran out. Grab one from the tray and take your turn.