Milton Bradley: So Much Criticism, So Little Knowledge

It didn't take too long for the Bradley bashing to begin. Most fans and media understand the only real concern regarding Bradley is his healthy. Unfortunately, there is that 10 percent of the media who continue to obsess over Bradley's off-the-field issues. 

Should the media ask Bradley about his past off-the-field issues? Absolutely, they should ask about them. They are a part of who Milton Bradley is. 

While I don't have problems with the questions, I do have a problem with media members who make Bradley out to be a bad teammate and a clubhouse distraction.  

The idea that Bradley is a bad teammate comes from that 10 percent who choose to make their own assumptions without doing any research.  

One Chicago Sun-Times writer, who I won't mention, says he spent Thursday talking to people who had very unkind words regarding Bradley. Really, I would love to know who these people are. Maybe he spent the day talking to Jeff Kent, who by the way, is one of the most hated players in all of baseball.

My point being is we've heard nothing but positive things from Bradly's teammates, coaches, and past announcers. Josh Hamilton, Frank Thomas, and Josh Lewin (Texas Rangers announcer) are just a few. 

Believe it or not, the Chicago Cubs actually do background checks. Hendry has spoken with numerous players and coaches about Bradley, and the reaction is the same across baseball. Bradley plays the game extremely hard, and is a good teammate. He sometimes lets his emotions get the best of him, but he is one of the hardest working players in the game. 

During Bradley's press conference, he was honest saying he doesn't like the media. As time goes on, he will learn who he can and can't trust in Chicago. 

If you don't like the Bradley signing because he is injury prone, I can relate to that.  Just don't let that 10  percent of the media influence your take on what Bradley is all about. 

I personally like the signing of Milton Bradley. Like any realist, I am concerned about Bradley's health. How can anyone not be concerned about his health, but anyone who plays the game as hard as Bradley can play for me anytime. 

For the 10 percent of the Chicago media, it is time for you to do your research. I know it's difficult for you since you have lost you're two favorite soundbites Kerry Wood and Mark DeRosa, and you will be actually have to work to get an interview.