Describe the use of steroids in professional baseball, and determine how the practice progressed layers and became so pervasive in the industry.
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The use of steroids in professional baseball refers to the illegal and unethical practice of players using performance-enhancing drugs to gain an unfair advantage over their opponents. Steroids are a class of synthetic hormones that can promote muscle growth and increase physical endurance, thus potentially improving an athlete's performance.
The use of steroids in baseball progressed and became pervasive in the industry for several reasons. One major factor was the pressure on players to perform at their best, both for personal success and for the financial rewards associated with professional sports. Baseball players face immense competition to secure contracts, maintain their position in the team, and achieve individual accolades such as All-Star selections or induction into the Hall of Fame. The desire to excel in this highly competitive environment created a significant temptation for players to turn to steroids as a means to enhance their performance.
Another contributing factor was the lack of stringent testing and regulation regarding performance-enhancing drugs in baseball for a significant period. Prior to 2002, when the MLB implemented testing for steroids, the league had only weak and sporadic drug testing protocols. This allowed players to use steroids without much fear of getting caught. The absence of robust testing and the absence of a strict consequences system enabled players to take risks with steroid use.
Additionally, the cultural perception of steroids in the 1990s and early 2000s played a role in its proliferation. During this time, there was a general acceptance and even glorification of athletes who achieved remarkable feats through enhanced performance. The quest for breaking records and witnessing extraordinary performances overshadowed concerns about fair play and the potential health risks associated with steroid use. This cultural context influenced some players to believe that the use of steroids was a necessary means to keep up with their peers and achieve success.
Lastly, the players' union, the Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA), was resistant to implementing stringent drug testing policies. The union's concern for player rights and privacy led to a delay in the establishment of comprehensive testing protocols. It was not until increased public scrutiny, congressional hearings, and pressure from fans and media that the MLBPA agreed to stricter testing measures.
In recent years, there have been significant efforts to combat the use of steroids in baseball. Major League Baseball now has robust testing protocols, strict penalties for positive tests, and a more proactive approach towards identifying and deterring the use of performance-enhancing drugs. The league's stance on steroids has shifted, focusing on fair competition, protecting player health, and maintaining the integrity of the sport.
Overall, the use of steroids in professional baseball progressed and became pervasive due to the intense competitive nature of the industry, inadequate testing and regulation, societal glorification of enhanced performance, and resistance from the players' union. However, with a more proactive approach towards testing and education, the league has made significant strides in curbing the use of steroids and creating a fair playing field.
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