Michael Vick and Mark Buehrle: Comments Appropriate or Not?

Michael Vick was once most famous for his electric football skills and ability to be a quarterback that doubles as a running back.

This was back in Atlanta and this was before the big conflict about his dog fighting antics. 

Everyone has their own personal opinion about Michael Vick and what he did, but most people have kept them to themselves. Until now. 

Chicago White Sox's pitcher Mark Buerhlre, a known dog lover (he claims he has five children—a boy, a girl and three dogs), was recently interviewed about his love for dogs in an article on MLB.com. Scott Merkin reported on the story. 

Although this direct quote was removed from the online story, Merkin later posted the quote on his twitter:

“(Vick) had a great year and a great comeback, but there were times where we watched the game and I know it’s bad to say, but there were times where we hope he gets hurt. Everything you’ve done to these dogs, something bad needs to happen to these guys.”

The question is, was it necessary and appropriate for Buehrle to make these comments and notify the public of his feelings?

Sure. He has freedom of speech and is able to express his thoughts and feelings to the nation.

Was it okay that he claimed that his wife (Jamie) and himself rooted for him to be injured while on the field? No.

Michael Vick has already done prison time and been fined for his doings and that should be enough. Let him live the rest of his life knowing what he did wrong. He'll live with that guilt forever.

Would it be okay if a sports player rooted for Mark Buerhlre to throw out his arm when he's on the mound? No.

Then again, what reason would they have to make that notion?

It's one thing to say that you don't particularly like the player because of what he or she did, their past encounters with each other, whether or not their on rival teams etc.

Buehrle should have left it at saying that Vick had a great season and maybe said that he didn't care for Vick because of what he did in the past. 

It's not okay that Mark Buehrle made those comments and it's also not okay that Michael Vick harmed the dogs back in 2007. So where does the happy medium come in?

Buehrle should make the notion to apologize for what he said, leave it at he doesn't support what Michael Vick did and be done with it.

He can go on and continue to root against him or, if need be, wishes he gets hurt, but don't make it open to the public.