Pro Athletes Off The Field Ant...

This summer is rolling along, in most parts of the country kids are already going back in school, football preseason is in full swing, baseball playoff chatter is all over the place.

Sadly, for me this past week I got distracted from my usual sporting TV binging. The off the field news was more disappointing than usual, so I’m decided to chat a bit about that with you.

Let me start with the big story, Deshaun Watson as it continues to be a nightmare for all, foremost with the possible victims of his behavior, the league in general, football fans, woman, not to mention most probably the fate of the Cleveland Browns 2022 season. It would seem to me that by now the NFL could put this saga to rest by stepping up to the plate and imposing a meaningful suspension that would be appropriate for Watson’s actions. Watson may have escaped an indictment for a criminal offense but his actions were definitely inappropriate and perhaps illegal. A lot of fans think about what I think about and that is about how much they are they paying this guy, and why his inner circle allowed these issues to go as far as they did? His behavior was out of the norm even though supposedly in some cases discussions and non-disclosures, consent agreements and others arrangements were consensual and documented by signatures. (Obviously that did not work well) To use the words of a good friend of mine, “money doesn’t make you right”. Personally, now that so much attention has been brought to light, I personally cannot wonder whether or not this pattern of behavior began before his entrance into the NFL. Does this pattern go back to when he was a star player at Clemson? I’m also beginning to think that the Browns just aren’t meant to have a well-rounded QB. How many has it been now? I’ve lost count. Ok I vented about this sad sports saga, but I’m sure a lot of fans will vent their displeasure this season on and off the field, I can hear the noise already. Ok moving on now.

Luckily after I digested the bad news I had the first full weekend of NFL Pre Season which was a much-needed shot in the arm for myself and I’m sure football fans in general. As with most preseason games, the well-paid stars were sidelined to let the rookies shine and to test their abilities. There were exceptions however as veteran players now on new team rosters were put thru the paces of a new system. It’s too early to make predictions, but with a bit of parity playing out with quality players playing for new teams, the season should be an exciting one. Even though just preseason the stadium were packed!

NFL Alert I took notice too: not really sure if anyone else noticed but the place kicker for the Cincinnati Bengals, Evan Mcphearson, nailed a 58 yarder like it was a chip shot. This guy is money. To be honest, I don’t think the Bengals would have made it to the Super Bowl without him last year. Expect more of the same this year.

Baseball chat, now I must talk about the season for the San Diego Padres. As two weeks ago it seemed they were headed in the right direction, possible play off direction. A fun sports chat that was until their star shortstop (one of last year’s home run kings) Fernando Tatis Jr. tainted his teammates, their abilities and drew the negative attention no team wants. He was suspended 80 games for using a PED banned by the league. Granted, the guy was in rehab and not playing however, it is a big blemish for him, his team and baseball in general. Another decision one has to say “what was he thinking” not only does this hurt him big time considering his salary 340 million over 14 years That’s a big “ouch” on that one. But I suppose it still leaves him with many millions more than me. Perhaps that is why I and many others find these types of actions by professional sports athletes today so disappointing and encourage the respective leagues to punish them severely. Fernando, think of that as if you’re on vacation, but not a paid one.

Other notable sports stories that I found interesting and very watchable this week;

Little League World Series: I watch this every year from start to finish. Kids playing baseball on small fields in towns no one has ever heard of. They might be only 10 years old, there might be only 50 people in the stands, but the passion and commitment is the same as in any big league game.

English Premier League Football: Nothing better then beer and breakfast at 8 a.m. on a Saturday morning while watching some of the world’s greatest soccer players. The quality of the play is excellent, the fans are loud and boisterous and the on field (or pitch as my English friends call it) is fun to watch. I highly recommend it.

Serena Williams announces intent to retire: I’ve watched this woman play, and dominate, tennis my entire adult life. Many will argue her level of greatness in the months to come, many will compare her career with all the others, but no one can deny her impact on the game. Her presence in sport will be missed by all of us.

Until Next Week!

Kev