The steroid era had a significant impact on Major League Baseball (MLB) in several ways:
- Records and statistics: One of the most significant impacts of the steroid era was the inflated records and statistics. Players who used performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) were able to hit more home runs, run faster, and perform at a higher level than they would have been able to do naturally. This led to records being broken, and players achieving feats that were previously thought impossible.
- Fan interest and revenue: The increased performance of players on PEDs led to increased fan interest and higher revenue for MLB. Fans were drawn to the spectacle of home runs and high-scoring games, and teams that had players performing at a high level were able to attract more fans and generate more revenue.
- Health risks and ethical concerns: The use of PEDs also raised serious ethical concerns and health risks for the players. The long-term effects of PED use on the body are still not fully understood, and players who used PEDs put themselves at risk of serious health problems. Additionally, the use of PEDs was seen as cheating and gave some players an unfair advantage over others.
- Trust and credibility: The steroid era also damaged the trust and credibility of MLB. Fans and players alike felt that the use of PEDs undermined the integrity of the game and called into question the legitimacy of the records and achievements of players who used them. It also led to a decline in the reputation of some of the game’s biggest stars, who were later implicated in PED use.
- Hall of Fame: The steroid era has also impacted the selection process for the Baseball Hall of Fame. Many players who were implicated in PED use or suspected of using PEDs have been excluded from the Hall of Fame, despite their impressive on-field accomplishments. This has led to debates about the criteria for induction into the Hall of Fame and what role PED use should play in the selection process.
If You Have It, You Can Make Anything Look Good
- Public perception: The steroid era has also affected public perception of MLB. Some fans have become disillusioned with the game and question the integrity of the sport. This has led to a decline in attendance and viewership in some markets and a loss of revenue for the league.
- Rebuilding the sport’s image: In recent years, MLB has made efforts to rebuild the sport’s image and restore public trust in the game. This has included implementing stricter drug testing policies, promoting clean play and sportsmanship, and acknowledging the negative impact of the steroid era on the game.
Overall, the steroid era had a significant impact on MLB, with implications that are still being felt today. While the increased performance and revenue generated by the era were attractive to fans and players at the time, the negative consequences of PED use have led to ongoing challenges for the sport.
