Steroids in Baseball
There is so much controversy and contention when it comes to steroids in baseball. Some wonder if it actually enhances performance. Others are concerned about the side effects and if athletes are harming themselves in the long run. But before we get into all of that, it’s important to understand what a steroid actually is and why players are attracted to using them. The synthetic version of the male hormone testosterone is called Anabolic steroids. In it’s normal state, testosterone encourages and supercharges muscle development and growth.
By supplementing testosterone with steroids, muscle mass increases, body fat is dramatically reduced and endurance soars. Steroids in baseball became popular because athletes want to have an edge over the competition. In fact, most believe that steroid would cause them to hit the ball much further and much longer. However there are both psychological and physical side effects that come with using steroids. There could be depression, mood swings, and even uncontrollable rage. Physically there could be liver damage, cancer, acne, and testicular atrophy.
A great number of highly regarded and beloved Major League Baseball players have been accused of using steroids in baseball to enhance their performance. Reputations have been tarnished Promising careers have been destroyed by using performance boosting drugs. Because their performance may not have been achieved naturally, their records and awards have come under scrutiny. MLB commissioner Bud Selig banned chemical assistance to level the playing field forcing each player to weight the rewards verses the risks that comes with using steroids. Because fairness is a paramount factor in sports, steroids in baseball will continue to be something the league struggles to overcome.