Empathy For Jay Gibbons

If you have a chance to check out ESPN.com this evening, you should probably read "Players like Bonds, Gibbons, Logan Struggle To Find Work". It's a pretty eye-opening piece on how some unemployed players who implicated in the Mitchell Report have had a very hard time finding work and are still on the market.

Obviously, we know the saga of Barry Bonds, but much of the piece is devoted to former Oriole Jay Gibbons.

Thus, if you read the piece, you'll also see a letter -- an impassioned one -- that he wrote to all 30 teams within baseball.

Here's some of what he wrote:

I have faith and hope that some team will give me the chance to prove that I can not only be a productive player but also be a stellar member of their organization. My faith in a second chance has inspired me to work harder than I have at any time in my life. My faith has gotten me through this most difficult period in my life.

All I need is a chance -- any chance -- anywhere. I am more than willing to begin the process of proving that I can and will be a productive major league player by playing in the minor leagues.

Also...

I am so willing to prove myself as a player, and a person, that I will donate ALL of my minor league earnings to your Club's charity. In the event that I earn the right to play at the major league level, I will gladly donate a significant sum to that same charity.

Once again, all I need is a chance and I will prove that I can be an extremely productive player and a great addition to your organization.

Well, I have chastised our former slugger, but also feel tremendous empathy for him, as I have talked to him a few times and seen him interact with others -- especially kids -- in PR/community for the team.

I'll say, he may have cheated for whatever reason, but honestly, I think he should get another chance to play baseball, considering some of the other players who were in the report are employed and still have their careers intact. Furthermore, not to criticize other players, but he's unemployed mostly for the fact HE DIDN'T PRODUCE.

That's really it. If he were a .300 hitter with 35 homers a year annually, someone would justify him being employed and take the sword for him. It's that simple.

I do think Jay cheated and stole money? Yes. However, there's a long list -- perhaps maybe multiplied by the amount of players not in the Mitchell Report who have profited handsomely from the specter of drugs and the brass of Major Baseball turning it's back to an obvious problem.

Perhaps Gibbons may be closer to finding work as the Sun posted this:

From The Baltimore Sun:Gibbons, whom the Orioles released in March, several months after he admitted to using human growth hormone and agreed to a Major League Baseball-imposed suspension, said he expects to sign with a New York- or New Jersey-based Atlantic League club by tomorrow and should be in uniform within days.

"I want to continue my career and start over," said Gibbons, 31. "This is an opportunity, and that is all I have been looking for."

Gibbons has split time in his native California and his offseason Arizona home waiting to catch on with another organization. In May, he sent a letter to the other 29 baseball organizations asking for an opportunity to play.

I think he's served his punishment by just the embarrassment factor alone. He was hung out to dry by Major League Baseball, and was pretty much tried and convicted by most fans on the 'net, sports talk radio as well as the press.

In the end, I only wish Jay Gibbons the best of luck getting a spot back into the sport, as I believe he's truly sorry, wants forgiveness, and a chance to play again -- unlike some of the others who have been implicated, who have either lawyered up or refused to talk.

Why would I want him to be employed again? I think despite Jay Gibbons have been a multi-millionaire several times over and over should be given another shot despite his inclusion in the Mitchell Report. Obviously, he's starting from square one and will need to earn his spot, but from the letter I have read he's shown a lot of contrition, and considering some of his peers are playing despite also being in the document -- Gibbons should be given a chance to prove and redeem himself.

Before I go, one person needs to be singled out for his compassion -- Tigers' GM Dave Dombrowski for at least responding to Gibbons letter with dignity and decorum, despite the team not being interested in his service.

The Teacher is In: Orioles 2007 Season Grades - The Staring Outfield...

Well, I'm going to play teacher this morning and assign grades the best I can to the Oriole players on the squad.

Some are going to like what I have said, and the grades I have issued, some are not.

That being said, let's begin.

We all know that the Orioles have more or less sucked this season, and this winter will be nothing short of critical in charting the course of the franchise in the future.

Today, I'll be doing the starting outfield...

Nick Markakis, Right Field
2007 Numbers: .300 AVG, 23 HR, 112 RBt’s, .485 SLG, .362 OBP. 191 hits
Grade: A

In a year where fans and observers like had to sit through a putrid season, Markakis was one of few bright spots. I thought he might have been a tad overrated, but he’s the real deal.

After a slow start in 2007, his numbers picked up and he was the only Oriole to bat .300, hit over 20 homers, and drive in 100 runs. Seeing him play makes me think of Dwight Evans in the field, and Wally Joyner at the plate. He’s got a nice swing, and I have been even more impressed with his fielding and his arm.

Just think of it.

If Nick Markakis played for anyone else but the Orioles; i.e., a contender like Philadelphia, the New York teams, Boston, or an Atlanta, he’d be a Gold Glover – easily.

Hell, if he was a Yankee, he’d have a statue ready for him in Monument Park, and if he were a member of the Red Sox, he’d be a god in Boston.

So far, it’s been good for Nick, and he should only get better at the plate if he can get his power numbers up. Fans should only expect nothing but the best, and although he’s a very quiet guy, you can count on him taking a leadership role sometime down the road.

He’ll no doubt be part of the future; however, fans should not expect him to be the next Cal, Frank, Brooks, Jim Palmer rolled into one – he’s just Nick. We are all longing for a winner, but he’s no doubt a huge piece in the puzzle.

Jay Payton, Left Field
2007 Numbers: .256 AVG, 7 HR, 58 RBI, .292 OBP, .376 SLG
Grade: D

Jay Payton was signed to be an extra part of a contending team, and was supposed to be a proven winner that as supposed to supplant an offense that needed speed and experience.

He was nothing but a disappointment, and based on his numbers along with attitude, Payton seemingly lost interest along with played sloppy at time. As well, I think he got very disturbed by the losing and his body language at times suggested it.

His poor numbers only show he was part of the Orioles problem, and he was.

Personally, I think he needs a change of scenery and should be dealt. Both sides need it.

Corey Patterson, Center Field
2007 Numbers: .269 AVG, 8 HR, 45 RBIS, 37 SB, .304 OBP
Grade: C

I like Corey Patterson, and he’s got a lot of god given athletic ability that most players dream of.

However, for one reason or another, he’s not been able to get it all together.

His problem has been consistency along with get command of the hitting zone at the plate. He’d be a great leadoff guy with his blazing speed; however, he strikes out way too much and his on-base percentage is nothing to be happy about. He’s got some power, but his numbers have gone down, and not improved at all.

Corey is a wizard in the outfield, and is a great defensive presence. In light of it all, some of his habits that led to his departure from the Cubs came with him to Baltimore. I do give him credit, he picked his numbers up big-time after the All-Star Break before he went down with an ankle injury.

He’s in his free agent year, and I would not re-sign him unless the price is right. The team could find better on the open market, or look in house for a solution (read: Tike Redman).

Tike Redman, Center Field

2007 Numbers: .318 AVG, 2 HR, 16 RBI, 7 SB, 132 AB, .462 SLG
Grade: B+

Well, Tike Redman was a fall call-up and got a chance to play everyday due to injuries to members of the team.

So, far in a small sample size with the Orioles, it’s been good. In his time with the team, he brought a mix of speed, a little pop and aggressiveness to the plate.

My only problem with him is that he has not impressed me in the outfield. He’s made some terrible plays in the field, and has at times missed balls that the average center fielder would have gotten.

Despite it all, he’s been a welcome surprise to the team, and should on the roster next year.

Jay Gibbons, Left Field/First Base/Designated Hitter

2007 Numbers: .230 AVG, 6 HR, 28 RBI, .272 OBP, .348 SLG
Grade: F

Jay Gibbons is a nice guy, and was great with the fans, but he’s worn out his welcome with most fans in Baltimore.

There I said it.

Being a nice person helps, but when you have completely forgotten how to play the game, you will not endear yourself to anyone.

Along with his awful season, the stench of the drug witch hunt came back to Baltimore and this time, he got caught in the drama as he was shown to have bought drugs from Signature Pharmacy out of Florida.

Considering he was the player’s rep, denied he ever used drugs, and as well denounced Jason Grimsley and Rafael Palmiero for their involvement, he comes off as a total fraud.

If you mix in the drug problems with a guy whose offensive numbers have regressed and someone who cannot play the field, you have a player who hurts rather than helps the Orioles. At times, he’s looked clueless at the plate; however, even worse groused to the media about his playing time and role on the team. He’s struggled with injuries, and has never lived up to his problem; alas, I’ll give him credit – he’s made a lot of money and had gone further than anyone probably imagined based on his natural talent.

All of that is a mixture for a team cancer.

He’s got to go, no matter how much money is owed.

Quick Hits: More on Gibbons, Oriole News and the Rundown...

Well, hope everyone is having a good Tuesday; albeit, it is cloudy & rainy from where I am at.

Sums up what we feel about the black and orange, eh?

I don’t know what to think anymore and it seems that all the news that comes out of Baltimore is bad; alas, let’s be thankful we have 20 games left and then 2007 can be put out to pasture.

It looks like Jay Gibbons has been summoned by Major League Baseball to discuss his PED (performance enhancing drug use) and other matters. At this point, it is too early to say what price Jay will pay with MLB and the court of public opinion; however, it is easy to now surmise that the drug problem will turn out to be bigger than what we all expected.

Does it really matter now? Nope.

With the money involved in big time sports and the contracts doled out to athletes, it is perhaps worth the risk to indulge in drug use.

It’s just reality. I think we are just scratching the surface.

From what I see right now, Gibbons is in hiding and has not made any public overtures to explain himself or address the fans of Baltimore. I think that says a lot, but you can take it for what is it worth. I remember him adamantly denying his involvement with drugs throughout the whole Jason Grimsley affair; however, where there's smoke there's often fire and it looks like Grimsley in light of his misdeeds may have some credibility.

Let's hope Gibbons is the only Oriole with indiscretions, because if there are others, it may bring an unwanted and serious black mark on the franchise.

According to the Baltimore Examiner, the Orioles could release veteran outfielder Jay Gibbons by voiding the final two seasons if the allegations against him are true. However, I think that will be far easier said than done considering the collective bargaining agreement and players’ union.

That being said, the Orioles could really play hardball with Gibbons, considering how the club handled Sidney Ponson and lest we forget, the vast resources of Peter Angelos, his law firm and legal mind.

Drew Forrester of WNST believes the Orioles are in a real tough spot with Gibbons.

Roch Kubatko spoke to David Segui about Jay Gibbons and the use of HGH in baseball – interesting what he had to say.

Bill Ordine addresses the HGH issue in baseball.

***

The Baltimore Sun has a preview and scouting report of the Angels-Oriole series tonight as does Heather Irvin of Oriole Magic. Victor Santos, in his first start as an Oriole, goes against the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim.

Things have not been easy for the Orioles, and as we are in the homestretch of the season, they are going to look to lift themselves from a deep hole.

Craig Heist knows Dave Trembley is going through a real hard time, and Amber Theoharis chronicles the hell that the Orioles are in. Meanwhile, Dempsey’s Army lets us know what we all know – the team isn’t good.

Allen McCallum opines that the Baltimore baseball club did not endear Bedard or Guthrie to any upcoming post season accolades.

The Wayward O has his thoughts on Jay Gibbons – um, it’s not good.

The Drug Probe Hits Close to Home: Gibbons Implicated...

When it rains, it pours...

As if the Baltimore Orioles needed any more bad news on top of the losing & lack of fan support.

CNN and Sports Illustrated have reported that our own Jay Gibbons Gibbons received shipments of performance-enhancing steroids and human growth hormone from Signature Pharamcy based out of Orlando, Fl.

From CNNsi:

"In the ever-widening Signature Pharmacy scandal, Baltimore Orioles outfielder Jay Gibbons is the latest pro athlete tied to an alleged illegal internet drug distribution network. According to information obtained by SI, Gibbons received shipments of performance-enhancing steroids and human growth hormone (HGH) from an Orlando-based compound pharmacy raided last spring as part of a multi-agency bust, even after both drugs were on Major League Baseball's banned substance list.

A source in Florida with knowledge of Signature Pharmacy's client list alleges that between October 2003 and July 2005, Gibbons received six separate shipments of Genotropin (a brand name for synthetic Human Growth Hormone), two shipments of testosterone and two shipments of human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG), a hormone produced naturally during pregnancy, but taken by anabolic steroid users to stimulate the production of testosterone, which is suppressed as a result of steroid use. The information regarding Gibbons only pertains to receipt and not actual use of the drugs."

Lovely.

Who knows if this true; however, where there is smoke - there is often fire.

Remember, Jay Gibbons is presumed innocent before proven guilty, but the Orioles have been down this path before a few times. I think in this case, it's different as there's a major media outlet tying him to a sting.

Quick Hits

* The Baltimore Sun’s David Steele muses about an amazing week in Baltimore, with Cal’s induction vote and the upcoming playoff game here in the city against the Colts.

* If you’re going to Cooperstown, you’d better act on getting a room – fast.

* Orioles.com beat writer Spencer Fordin takes a look at the depth of the team at the first, third & (mainly infield) spots, now that Huff is on the team. Huff will be expected to play a variety of positions, and Millar will perhaps get a lot of starts at first, while Jay will DH and play some first and outfield. Huff may sub for Mora when he needs a free day. It all depends on what happens in Spring Training and Sam Perlozzo.

* More on Ripken from Spencer Fordin. Cal wants to acquire the Orioles at some point.

* Cal was in New York City along with Tony Gwynn for a media day.

* Tony Pente of the popular Orioles’ Hangout site gives us his reflections of being on Cal’s press conference right after the announcement was made.

* A fellow blogger at Oriole Central on the day of Cal’s induction takes a look back at game 2131 and gives his reflections. It was great to read that and anyone who saw that game was reminded of what the O’s used to be, and importantly being able to witness such a historic moment that evokes such powerful emotions, more than 11 years later.

* The Roar from 34 blog ponders should be B-Rob be traded? At this point, I don’t know considering what the team has done, and for now I’d say he’s still one of building blocks for the future. However, if we get a deal that’s overwhelming, something needs to happen for the good of the team.

Honorable Mention: I’d like to give the blog, Yankees Chick a shout-out. She may be a dreaded Yankees fan, but she offers great analysis and snark commentary. More importantly, she gave props to both Cal Jr. and Cal Sr. recently, which makes her all right in my book.

Also, I’d like you to take a look at Dugout Diary by Joe Boesch. I like his blog in general and his insight towards the game.

As well, My Baseball Bias – An AL East Blog. He’s been at it a short while, but he’s put together an impressive body of work!

Last, but not least, take a look at Inside the Monster, an impressive look at the Red Sox and baseball, by young blogger Mike Edelman. He’s a good guy and really knows his stuff!

Quick Hits - The O's First Base Issue, Potential Players, D-Train and an Old Friend...

The latest article in the Baltimore Sun about the Orioles' offseason ponders the latest issue: who's at first base? Right now, Kevin Millar is slotted to play the position, and Jay Gibbons wants a chance to play in the field rather than be a platoon guy or everyday DH, so he's also in the scene to become the everyday first baseman. Both guys will get their chance to show what they have in spring training unless the Orioles make a deal to get a more established first baseman within the organization.

The article highlights that the Orioles have been scouring the league for first baseman available via trade, with names such as Chris LaRoche of the Braves and the Mariners' Ben Broussard. As well, the O's have been talking to the agents for Carlos Pena, Aubrey Huff and Craig Wilson.

In the same article, the O's took a look at outfielder Shannon Stewart in a workout, and could be interested considering his injuries in the past few years and if the price is right.

As well, Mark Mulder's name was brought up in the article, but the O's aren't looking at him to join the rotation.

Also, Todd Williams, who was non-tendered by the team, may come back if the O's offer him a contract.

• Yikes, Say it ain't so! One of my and my little brother's favorite players, along with one of the most popular players in the game, the Florida Marlins ace pitcher Dontrelle Willis, aka the D-Train, was arrested Friday morning in Miami on suspicion of drunk driving. Link: http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=2705991


• An old ex-friend wants to return to baseball: Former O's and Cubs outfielder Sammy Sosa wants to return to the big leagues and hopes a team will take a chance on him. He's currently training in the Dominican Republic and asserts a number of teams are interested in him. According the article from ESPN, Sammy feels baseball has since turned its back on him, calling it a "blow" to not have received offers to come back during this year's season. Link: http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=2705612

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The Baltimore Orioles Jay Gibbons Admits Drug Use; Yeah, Like We All Should Be Surprised...

Wow, this has come quick. I don't know whether to be upset at Jay Gibbons, pat him on the back for telling the truth, or say go "f**k yourself" for being self-righteous and denying your drug use; however, what fans assumed about you was right.

It doesn't matter because you have your money to fall back on.

Yes, you took steroids, seen the light and decided to tell the truth.

Major League Baseball today suspended Orioles outfielder Jay Gibbons 15 days, beginning with the start of the 2008 season, for violating the league's drug policy. Gibbons admitted to The Sun today that he had used hGH.

Gibbons had not previously addressed allegations that he received a shipment of steroids and hGH from a raided Florida pharmacy. Gibbons and Kansas City Royals outfielder Jose Guillen, who was also given a 15-day ban today, are the first players to be suspended without failing a drug test.

"I am deeply sorry for the mistakes that I have made," Gibbons said. "I have no excuses and bear sole responsibility for my decisions. Years ago, I relied on the advice of a doctor, filled a prescription, charged the hGH, which is a medication, to my credit card and had only intended to help speed my recovery from my injuries and surgeries. I hope that my family, teammates, fans and [Orioles owner] Peter Angelos and the entire Orioles organization will accept my apologies and that we can all move on."

Jay, way to go. Sheesh. I don't know if the truth will set you free, but whatever. Now, if you were a decent ballplayer, we'd care; however, it's not a big deal to me. I want to see what happens when the Mitchell Report comes out.

Check out what James Baker says on Oriole Magic...

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