Berkman.... whatever. An elite hitter than should have been even better......... he alienated a lot of the baseball people around him, having Bagwell drag you around like a puppy dog only gets you so far.
On the baseball diamond, he's one of the best hitters ever to play the game. Defense and longevity, not so much.
I understand you are an insider when it comes to the subject of Berkman but it’s getting a little old. Just my opinion, I do enjoy reading your insight, I have heard a different opinion than yours on the subject, maybe you could back off responding in a negative light anytime Berkman’s name is brought up.
He should be judged by what he did on the field and he is a borderline Hall of Famer based on his production. He may have to wait awhile because of politics. I don’t know how he didn’t hit 500 homers or win an MVP, but even with all his personality warts he had 9-10 straight elite seasons in a row. Even without longevity, at some point he likely gets in.
Mike Hampton pitched for the Rockies for 2 seasons 16 years ago, hasn't pitched in MLB since 2010, and Colorado made their final payment to him yesterday.
He didn’t spend a lot of time working out or even studying pitchers. He is a lot like Battier... smart and efficient. Roger Clemens was an ass, but he set a great example and worked extremely hard.
Gamel and Santana are a weird swap. At least G can play a bit of OF. The pitcher Seattle traded looks to potentially be the best player in the deal.
He was always the first player in the ballpark and he had a very regimented routine with Pettite. He worked with a lot of the pitchers as well. He busted his butt. As far as steroids and HGH goes, a majority of players were using or had used at one point. I don’t like it, but it doesn’t take away from his incredible work ethic... especially by a guy that was already 40 and so accomplished. The players on the roster also really respected him. I am not saying that Clemens was some sort of wonderful person, only that he was very dedicated and helped his teammates a lot.
You tend to get more energy for that sort of work ethic via juicing... especially when you’re at an age where you should be on the decline.