What Is Alex Rodriquez Doing To Me?

It felt different this time. What was this feeling I was experiencing? Ever since A-Rod became a Yankee, I haven't been able to stand the guy. Any time I heard of A-Rod's misfortunes I laughed, called him names and reasoned with how he probably deserved it. But, upon hearing of today's admission, I didn't laugh, or call him names.

I actually felt bad for him.

I personally regarded Rodriguez as probably the greatest hitter of my lifetime. I thought he was a shoo-in for the Hall of Fame, and to eventually be the All-time home run king. I liked him as a player when he was with Seattle, where all he did was mash the ball and play a solid shortstop.

Then, when he signed with Texas, he automatically put a big, fat target on his back.

Getting paid comes with responsibility to produce on the field, be a good teammate and be a community icon. Who wouldn't need a little pick-me-up from all that?

I still rooted for him and wished him the best as far as statistics go, even agreeing with being awarded the MVP when his team came in last place. Coincidentally, I think that's when those little helpers came into play.

However, I developed a ripe disdain for A-Rod when he was traded to the Yankees. I was praying that the Red Sox, who were interested in his services at the time, didn't give the farm away for him.

The slap on Bronson Arroyo in 2004 was ridiculous. Leaving his pretty, attractive wife, and his young child for Madonna is tasteless. Deliberately yelling at an infielder while he was running is just childish, and bush league.

But, I was a little sad today when I heard because I believed he was clean and that he was just a freak with a bat. I accepted he was of ill character, but still I reasoned with myself and acknowledged him as a talented baseball hitter. Shouldn't I believe that it serves him right to get caught when he dishonored the game?

And his family?

And his fans?

But this time, not even being a fan of his, he disappointed me. I guess we shouldn't have been so naive as baseball fans. Or is it the fallout from corporate powers that were just turning a blind eye to what was going on then for the sake of more profits?

It is my speculation that MLB will make the other names available by the end of the week. I don't think they'll make A-Rod go through this alone. I know there will be favorite players of mine on this list.

I can't imagine how much disappointment I'll feel when that happens, especially when you consider even A-Rod made me feel sad for a moment today.