Comeback Story of the Year Rick Ankiel Accused of HGH Use, But Still Not an Asshole

It was reported in the New York Daily News this morning that Cardinals baseball player Rick Ankiel acquired HGH in 2004. The slugger has made headlines for his improbable conversion from pitcher to outfielder, and the dramatic homeruns he has hit since his August call-up from the minor leagues. Ankiel originally broke into the majors with the Cardinals in 1999 as a fireball throwing pitcher, with a wicked 12-6 curve. However, a bout of wildness in the 2000 playoffs sent Ankiel into a spiral of arm trouble and uncertainty. Close to hanging up the cleats forever, Ankiel attempt the startling conversion to the outfield. Since his call up to the major leagues in mid-august, Ankiel has 9 homeruns and 27 RBIs.

The accusation of HGH use surely taints what has been one of the few feel good stories in this year's baseball season. Sports in general have had it rough with the Bonds allegations, the Michael Vick fiasco, and the NBA referee scandal. The enthusiasm for the Ankiel story will definitely be cooled now with this recent information. People might starting throwing the cheater label around despite the facts that this happened 3 years ago, HGH use was not against MLB rules until 2005, and that there is no reported use or possession of HGH once it was prohibited.

Considering the hate and venom that has been spewed at Bonds, perhaps it's only fair that the same happen with Ankiel. It's unclear if Bonds really broke any "rules", yet people feel he tarnished the game, and soiled quite a few records. The moment he broke Hank Aaron's all-time homerun record people immediately jumped on the A-Rod bandwagon. Millions prayed for 5 more healthy seasons so the record could be taken back by a "good guy." But long before the record, and to some extent, long before allegations of drug use, Bonds was a hated player. His skill as a player was eclipsed only by his arrogance. People have a difficult time relating to someone whose most notable trait, besides his monstrously gigantic head, is a distant and chilly demeanor.

I doubt Ankiel will feel such wrath from the fans. Though a slight shadow has been cast on his achievement, Ankiel has been anything but a Bonds like asshole. Despite his improbable rise, dramatic homeruns, and the slow ascent of the Cardinals in the standings, Ankiel has been humble and thankful. As long as he continues doing what he's doing, the fans will still be there. They will not be as enthusiastic. They will be heard sighing wistfully for the Comeback Kid Story of two days ago. But they will see a kid a having fun playing a game-- and so long as he remains as he has been, people can imagine themselves as that kid. And they will always root for the player they can see as themselves.