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I would have respected Barry Bonds even without the home-run record. Barry Bonds has been the victim, or scapegoat, of MLB's past policy of overlooking steroid use. The thing is, there is no proof that he has ever used steroids. Everyone says you can tell just by looking at him, but that's not true. Other members of the Bonds family have matured the same way as Barry; thickening out and putting some muscle on their frames. This has even been true of Bonds men not in the sports industry. His beautiful swing has remained nearly identical to when he began playing so long ago. He may have more muscle mass than when he was younger, but we have access to so much information on nutrition, supplements, and effective exercise regimens there is no way to say that someone could not have built their body the way that he has. One thing that does bother me, not about Barry, but about the whole sporting industry, is the lack of policing in the supplement industry. There have been many cases of randomly tested supplements from various companies that would have caused positive test results that on no way reflect a player's purposefully taking the illegal substances.

Barry has, besides the obvious physical talent and ability, an extremely solid focus and determination. It would be so easy for a man in his situation to bid farewell to a world that has treated him poorly for many years in spite of all his contributions to the sport. Anyone should be able to look at today's game and understand that it's not the muscle that makes a player hit the ball over the fence. Alex Rios hit more home runs in one round of the Home Run Derby this year than any other player and he could never be accused of taking steroids. Obviously the concentration and swing are the main factors. The ability to be patient at the plate. Putting yourself in situations to be successful. Waiting until your ahead at the plate. Learning the scouting report on all opposing pitchers. Understanding the field you're playing at. Soliciting advice from some of baseball's legends. Practicing hard. Doing all the things that you've been taught your whole baseball career. Not being lazy.
I believe in the future Barry Bonds will cooperate and contribute in the biggest way to uncovering steroid use and ensuring that it is eliminated. And I believe that Barry will do this as a proud fan of the game, regardless of how everyone has treated him. That deserves respect.

Learn more about this author, Travis Joel.
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