The Steiner Sports Memorabilia Blog

By Jason Klein  Archive.  Twitter.  Contact Me.

“It’s one of the coolest things…being called a champ,” said the newly crowned Nick Swisher.  “You can’t ever take that away.”

No matter what path his career takes from here, he will forever be a World Champion.  According to Swisher, it is an honor he would not be enjoying without the efforts and contributions of every man to wear the pinstripes in 2009.

Following My Interview with Swisher

“For ten months straight, you work as a team to accomplish great things,” he said.  “This season, we all had the right mindset, and the right group of guys working together.  That’s why we were able to win the whole thing.”

Just hours removed from capturing the 2009 World Series Title, Swisher found himself inside the Steiner Sports Corporate Offices commemorating the achievement.  Along with other members of the 2009 World Champion New York Yankees, Swisher was there, adding his signature to team signed World Series baseballs, photos, jerseys, bats and helmets.   

Swisher marveled at the new product line, referring to select pieces as “bad-ass,” and even requesting some photos for his personal collection.  Feeling nostalgic throughout the signing, he was eager to discuss his first season in the Bronx and the important role team chemistry played in the Championship run.

In 2009, the Yankees made key additions to their roster, bringing in players to round out an already potent group.  Coming to New York, where the team’s objective from day one always includes a parade down the Canyon of Heroes, can be intimidating for many.  Over the last eight title-less seasons, many have come and gone with little success.  The 2009 club was different though.

“This wasn’t about myself, or CC [Sabathia], or AJ [Burnett],” said Swisher.  “This was about everyone.  We needed the whole team on the same page and we all were able to bond together.”

The foundation of their close-knit group can be traced back to February 23, 2009.  That’s when the club united during a much publicized spring training field trip to the pool hall.

“At the time, we had a lot of work to do,” said Swisher.  “We had a season to get ready for and then Skip [Manager Joe Girardi] comes in and tells us to drop everything, we’re going to play pool for the day.  It was big for us.  Everyone bought into it, we had a great time, and we were able to carry that onto the field.”

That’s where the Yankees won an MLB best 103 ball games, including a dominant 57-24 mark within the confines of their new home in the Bronx.  Their success was the perfect blend of old and new.  Though the integration of new personalities like Swisher, Sabathia, Burnett and Teixeira was important, according the Swisher, a lot of the harmony can be attributed to members of the old guard.

New Celebration Shot Signed by Swish

“It’s the big four, [Jorge] Posada, [Derek] Jeter, [Andy] Pettitte, and [Mariano] Rivera,” he said.  “They are who the Yankees are.  They represent the team extremely well and are real leaders.  None of them came up to us new guys and said, ‘this is how we do things.’  It’s unspoken.  We all followed their lead and learned from them.”

The Yankees enter this offseason with a few issues to address.  Questions about the futures of Johnny Damon, Andy Pettitte, and World Series MVP, Hideki Matsui all loom.  The core of this roster will remain intact for 2010 when the Yankees try to defend their title – a challenge Swisher is already anxious to take on.

“I can’t wait to go back to war with these guys.”

For instant updates, and more exclusive insider access, follow me on Twitter here.

E-Mail me at jklein@steinersports.com

By Jason Klein  Archive.  Twitter.  Contact Me.

It’s October.  The leaves are falling…that means the Yankees are on the rise.  Twenty-six times, the New York Yankees have captured the ultimate prize: a World Series Championship. Tonight they begin their mission for #27.

Derek Jeter Hand Signed 2009 World Series Jersey

Sweeping the Twins was a nice accomplishment.  Knocking off the Angels exorcized previous Post Season demons.  Defeating the Phillies in the Fall Classic will answer the pinstriped mission statement put forth every spring – be the last team standing in October.

It’s been nine years since the Yankees owned the baseball world.  In that time, fans have realized how difficult it is to win a ring, a sobering and frustrating process for many.  While the franchise has now captured 40 American League flags in their illustrious history, fans have recently learned how hard it is to convert a Pennant into a ring.

“Our customers are hungry for a Yankees World Series victory,” says Brett Schissler, Director of Retail Sales for Steiner Sports.  “Yankees fans were spoiled in the 90s, but a lot of people now realize just how difficult it is to win the whole thing, and how special this season could be.”

For the first time in 85 years, the Yankees will attempt to win a championship while playing in a new building.  They turned the trick way back in 1923, the inaugural season for the original Yankee Stadium, defeating the New York Giants 4 games to 2.  Now they attempt to make history in their new digs, officially making the “New House” a “Home.”

This playoff run is the perfect historical storm in the collectibles industry.  The most storied franchise, boasting some of the biggest names in baseball, is looking to add more hardware to their collection while attempting to christen a new ball park.  It’s a collector’s dream.

To make matters better, never before have fans enjoyed access during a championship run like they do in 2009.  The memorabilia industry has changed immensely since Bernie Williams caught the final out of the Subway Series at Shea Stadium.  The Yankees-Steiner partnership now gives fans the opportunity to own one-of-a-kind Post Season gems like game used bases, baseballs and jerseys used during actual game play – something that wasn’t possible in 2000. 

Those looking to immortalize this remarkable season will have many delicious options to choose from.  Commemorative World Series items signed by players like Jeter, Rodriguez, Rivera, Posada, and Sabathia, among others, were available for sale within hours of the pennant-clinching out.  Those lucky enough to attend a game in the Bronx will be able to mail their ticket in and have a personal collage created to celebrate the day.  Team signed photos, baseballs, jerseys and bats will also be available in limited quantities.

Mariano Rivera Hand Signed 2009 World Series Ball

“Fans recognize the urgency here,” says Schissler.  “We’ve pre-sold a bunch of World Series baseballs already and have long waiting lists filled with customers looking to snag game used jerseys from the [World] Series.  Everyone wants to take home a piece of history.  You just never know when something like this will happen again.”

Starting tonight, “Let’s Go Yankees” chants will fill the crisp Autumn Bronx air, Jeter will have his fist pump locked and loaded, “Mystique” and “Aura” will make their way across the street to be in attendance.  Soak it in.  Grab something to commemorate the journey.  The last nine years prove that this sort of thing doesn’t happen every season.  This is special.  It’s history in the making.  It’s history for the taking.

For instant updates, and more exclusive insider access, follow me on Twitter here.

E-Mail me at jklein@steinersports.com

By Jason Klein  Archive.  Twitter.  Contact Me.

The swagger is back in the Bronx.

As the New York Yankees prepare for their American League Championship Series with the Los Angeles Angels, it’s clear, there’s something different about this team.  In the eight seasons immediately following their Subway Series victory in 2000, the New York Yankees morphed into a collection of highly-paid, corporate superstars.  Team chemistry was weak.  Anxiety levels were high.  These days, the Yankees are wearing their ties a little looser and having a little more fun at the ball park. 

So what changed?  That’s easy…easy as pie.

Nick Swisher Enjoys a Little Pie

In 2009, the most traditional team in all of sports established a new ritual – a good, old fashioned, pie to the face – courtesy of AJ’s Bakery, Co.  All pies were hand delivered by Pitcher, AJ Burnett, on cue, to any player to notch a walk-off hit in the Bronx. 

Early on, critics scoffed at the amateurish celebration tactic adopted by the business-like Yankees.  Many argued that such a childish act seemed out of place among these men in pinstriped suits, claiming it was not “Yankee-like.”  As irony would have it, a little silliness was exactly what this team needed.

Unlike so many other Yankees teams that have come before them, the 2009 club seems more relaxed, and free from all the stress that comes along with the yearly “World Series victory or bust” mentality.  The additions of free-spirits like Burnett and Nick Swisher have served as the perfect compliment to the older, more business-like core of Derek Jeter, Mariano Rivera, Andy Pettitte and Jorge Posada. 

Initially, there was some question as to how a member of that “old guard” would react when greeted with a face full of whipped cream.  That was answered on July 4, 2009 when Posada stole the game from the Blue Jays with a walk off single in the 12^th inning.  Like clockwork, the catcher’s postgame interview turned into a pie eating contest, much to the delight of on looking fans.

Each walk-off pie – there have been 16 of them so far, including Mark Teixeira’s ALDS Game 2 pastry punch – has served as much more than a show of celebration.  It has developed camaraderie, calmed nerves, and tasted much sweeter than the humble pie they’ve been forced to eat in recent years. 

Timely hitting, lights out pitching, and the addition of team-first players like Teixeira and CC Sabathia have all been major reasons this club has succeeded.  Most importantly, this team has been reminded that winning can be fun.  A little whipped cream is all it took to ease the tension of the daily New York baseball rigors. 

The 2009 Yankees are all having a blast.  It seems as though this baseball machine is destined to return to glory.  The roster is a perfect blend of experience, youth, and journeymen – all hungry for the same thing: a World Series title, and perhaps some pie for dessert.

For instant updates, and more exclusive insider access, follow me on Twitter here.

E-Mail me at jklein@steinersports.com

By Jason Klein  Archive.  Twitter.  Contact Me.

Recently Developed Steiner Sports Product

Steiner Sports is always prepared.  No matter what occurs on the field, the leader in sports memorabilia and gifts is always equipped to offer a timely product assortment to its loyal customer base.  When something historic occurs, no one is quicker to go to market with the corresponding collectable than Steiner Sports.  It is this dedication to excellence that keeps Steiner Sports at the top of their game and their customers anxious to see what comes out next.

But how many Steiner Sports customers truly know the full story behind every piece of authentic memorabilia created?  According to Chris Amoroso, the Executive Vice President of Purchasing and Player Relations for Steiner Sports, the process is often overlooked.

“Our clients are very knowledgeable, but I think a lot of them don’t fully realize what goes into creating a product,” he says. “They might look at the amazing piece hanging on their wall and don’t fully understand what went into creating it for them to purchase.”

At Steiner Sports, this process begins with the Product Development Team.  Relentless preparation and creativity allow this division to fuel the collectables industry with the innovative product it demands. 

This was never more evident than what transpired in September 2009.  It had been widely assumed that New York Yankees Captain, Derek Jeter, would pass Lou Gehrig as the All-Time Yankees Hits Leader – the only question was: when?  As the world waited in anticipation, the Steiner Sports Product Development Team had been brainstorming for weeks, developing new commemorative collages and engraved items for Jeter to sign. 

The historic moment finally came on September 11, 2009 at Yankee Stadium. By the time Jeter reached first base safely for the 2,722^nd time, the only thing missing from the new line of commemorative product was his signature.  All items had already been designed, approved by Major League Baseball, introduced to the Steiner Sales team as samples, and were ready to be introduced to market.  Yankees fans quickly benefited, scooping up new Jeter items at a record pace.

However, due to circumstance, there are times the Product Development Team must rely more on creativity and hustle than on preparation.  On August 2, 2009, Yankees Centerfielder, Melky Cabrera, unexpectedly achieved one of the rarest feats in all of baseball.  While doing battle with the Chicago White Sox, Cabrera collected a single, double, triple and home run to hit for the first Yankees cycle in fourteen years.  The next day, Steiner Sports went to market with a limited edition engraved baseball shadowbox commemorating the achievement.

According to Cristiana Salcedo, the Director of Product Development for Steiner Sports, the ability to react quickly to unforeseen events like the Cabrera cycle is what places the Steiner team at the top of the collectables world.

“No one responds faster than we do, and we always get great feedback from our customers as a result,” she says.  “What happens on the field at night directly affects what we do the next morning in the office.  It’s challenging at times, but our team is always organized and prepared.”

As long as there are games being played, and records being broken, the Product Development Team at Steiner Sports will continue their efforts to capture the moments for fans to own.  According to Salcedo, the best is still yet to come.

“We have a lot of great new items in the works to commemorate the Inaugural Season at Yankee Stadium,” she says.  “Plus, if the Yankees get on a run, and make some noise in the Post Season, we’ll really raise some eyebrows with what’s in store.”

Be Prepared.

Have an idea for a new product?  E-mail me at jklein@steinersports.com with your idea.  If we bring that idea to market, we’ll send you a $250 Gift Certificate to Steiner Sports!   Ideas must be submitted by 10/31/09.

For instant updates, and more exclusive insider access, follow me on Twitter here.

E-Mail me at jklein@steinersports.com

By Jason Klein  Archive.  Twitter.  Contact Me.

The torch has been passed.  Now, let’s see how far the kid can run with it.

Prior to making his first professional start, New York Jets rookie Quarterback, Mark Sanchez met up with the only man to ever lead the franchise to a Super Bowl – Joe Namath.  For over forty years now, long-time suffering Jets fans have savored Joe Willie’s performance in Super Bowl III, speaking glowingly about the iconic figure and his positive contribution to an otherwise abysmal team history.  Sunday at Reliant Stadium in Houston, TX, Namath informed Sanchez that it’s time to move on.

“…this isn’t about me anymore.  It’s about you,” he told Sanchez.

With that, a new era of New York Jets football began.  Jets 24, Texans 7. 

Sanchez was confident and efficient, throwing for 272 yards including a 30-yard touchdown pass to Chanci Stuckey.  He was masterful under pressure, converting 10 of 18 third downs.  He exhibited great mobility in the pocket, and excellent decision making throughout.  Sanchez’s play, coupled with a pair of big runs from Thomas Jones, and Rex Ryan’s “Ravenous” defensive scheme, left Jets fans giddy at what the future might bring.  His quick start was reminiscent of the way another former New York rookie began his storied career.

Thirteen years ago, with similar poise and passion to what Sanchez displayed yesterday, Derek Jeter wrote the first chapter of his legendary career.  Now the all-time Yankees hits leader, Derek Jeter began his 1996 rookie season in Cleveland with a home run and a pair of dazzling plays at short stop.  The sky was the limit that day, and for over a decade, Jeter has been as good as advertised. 

He further solidified his legacy on Friday night by passing Lou Gehrig’s hits total.  On Sunday, the fiery kid from SoCal began writing his own legacy, chasing Broadway Joe along the way.

One game into “Matinee” Mark’s career, he looks up for the challenge…even if it was only one game.

“It isn’t fair to anyone to judge a young quarterback after one game,” Namath said.  “Even if it was a really good game…what I saw was a kid who was ready.”

The kid was ready, and so are Jets fans. 

In 1996, the Yankees, with a new manager (Torre) and a new leader (Jeter), built on chemistry carried over from the previous regime to capture the team’s first title in 18 years.  It’s been over forty years without a Jets Super Bowl victory.  Could a new coach (Ryan) and a new leader (Sanchez) do the trick for Gang Green too?  Jets faithful burn for another title run – time will tell if Sanchez can light that fire with his new torch.

For instant updates, and more exclusive insider access, follow me on Twitter here.

E-Mail me at jklein@steinersports.com

By Jason Klein Archive.  Twitter. Contact Me.

“Shut Up.  Play.”

Bernie Williams stood there and faced the media with those 3 words quietly displayed on his t-shirt.  It was October of 1996, and Williams wore this shirt in front of his locker throughout the post season.  This subtle reminder personified the Yankees of the mid-90s.

Those Yankees teams never gloated, always acted as if they had “been there before,” and proceeded to win four World Series titles in five years.  To this day, looking back on it, Williams still maintains a humble opinion of his years in pinstripes.

“I played on some unbelievable teams, but I was never concerned about where we ranked all-time or anything like that,” he said.  “I was just glad to be there and be a part of all the winning.”

Williams, looking like he could still slip into his pinstripes, visited the Steiner Sports Corporate headquarters on Thursday and for #51, the autograph session quickly turned into an opportunity for reflection.

“As I’ve grown older, I’ve learned to appreciate all the precious moments I had,” he said.  “I was part of a truly great team and I enjoy sitting back and enjoying those moments.”

Williams played on some of the most successful Yankees teams of all time, and the switch-hitting center fielder had a major role in most of those triumphs. Over the course of his 16-year career – all with the Yankees – Bernie Williams was selected to 5 All-Star Games, won the 1996 ALCS MVP Award, won 4 Gold Gloves for his wizardry in center field, and captured the 1998 Batting Title.  Despite all his personal accolades along the way, Williams insists his greatest memories are team oriented.

“The batting title in 1998 was special, but that whole 1998 team was unbelievable,” he said.  “Those are the things I remember the most…the things we accomplished as a team.”

It is that unassuming personality that has landed Bernie a special place in the hearts of most Yankees fans.  Adulation that was never more evident to Williams than at the final game ever played at the original Yankee Stadium.

“It was awesome to see the fans embrace me the way they did,” he said.  “Especially after being out of the game for a few years.  I was so surprised I got introduced after Yogi!”

Williams was invited back the following April to help initiate the new home of the Yankees.  He appeared in center field, playing “Take me out to the ball game” on his guitar, and highlighted an extraordinary day at the new ball park.

“Playing [the guitar] in center field on Opening Day was weird,” he said.  “It was such a bizarre moment.  I was in Yankee Stadium, with a guitar, playing in front of a full house.  It was such a cool moment.  There was so much electricity that day.  It reminded me of the old Stadium a lot.”

Inside that old Stadium, Bernie Williams cemented his place in Yankees lore, quietly positioning himself in the record books alongside other Yankees center fielders like Mickey Mantle and Joe DiMaggio.

“I have no regrets about my career,” he said.  “I was part of a great team for 16 years.  I am very proud of that, and I did it my way.”

He shut up and just played.

For instant updates, and more exclusive insider access, follow me on Twitter here.

E-Mail me at jklein@steinersports.com

By Jason Klein  Archive.  Twitter.  Contact Me.

The 1969 New York Jets were as smooth as Joe Namath’s flowing brown locks. 

Forty years later, as the 2009 Jets prepare for opening day, that legendary club remains the signature team for an otherwise frustrating franchise.  Everything went right that season for the green and white, the story is part of the fabric that makes up the NFL.  Back in 1969, as everyone knows, the New York Jets tore through their schedule, dominated the competition, and then, in dramatic fashion…lost to the Kansas City Chiefs in the Divisional Round of the Playoffs?

Huh?

No upset for the ages?  No merging of the leagues?  No guarantee?

No, actually, all of that happened the previous January during Super Bowl III, the culmination of the 1968 season.  It was the 1968 team that overcame the odds and defeated the Baltimore Colts 16-7.  That’s the club deserving of all the accolades so often misdirected towards the team from the 1969 season.  Confused?  Where did things get mixed up?

Every season, the NFL declares its champion during the Super Bowl – typically held in January (sometimes February) of the following calendar year.  However, this scheduling snafu has rarely caused any confusion…except in the case of the often overlooked 1968 New York Jets.

For instance, the 1972 Miami Dolphins are the only team in NFL history to complete a perfect season.  Yet, they won the Super Bowl played in January of 1973.  At last check, no one has ever referred to the ’73 Dolphins as Perfect – that team lost in the Super Bowl to the Minnesota Vikings in January of 1974.

Every Giants fan lives by their 1986 and 1990 Championship teams – even though both of those title games were played in 1987 and 1991 respectively.

Take it a step further: Slumdog Millionaire, deemed the top film of 2008, was crowned during the Academy Awards ceremony held in February of 2009 – the following year.  Yet, years from now, film aficionados will refer to Slumdog as the Picture of the Year for 2008, not 2009.

So why are the 1968 Jets almost always referred to as the 1969 club?  Ever see a 1968 Team Signed New York Jets helmet for sale, advertised as such? 

It’s possible it has something to do with the symmetry of winning during the same calendar year as the ’69 Amazin’ Mets and ’69 Knicks.  New York sports fans will always have a soft spot in their heart for that year of gluttonous winning – still no excuse for inaccuracy.

In 2008, the Jets wore a commemorative patch to honor the 40^th Anniversary of the Super Bowl III team – mathematical recognition appropriate for the 1968 club, and further confirmation of the championship team’s true identity. 

Regardless, forty years without a championship is a painfully long time to wait for such a devoted fan base.  When Gang Green finally gets to hoist that Lombardi Trophy for the second time in franchise history, it will be a day, and a year, that no Jets fan will soon forget. 

Make no mistake about it.

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E-Mail me at jklein@steinersports.com

By Jason Klein Archive.  Twitter. Contact Me.

On the Mount Rushmore of sports memorabilia, the autographed baseball is George Washington.  It’s the crown jewel of the sports collectible industry.  Signed jerseys and helmets are great too, but there’s something uniquely appealing about a signature on a baseball.

According to Steiner Sports CEO, Brandon Steiner, a signed baseball is simply part of American culture: “There’s Chevrolet, apple pie, and autographed baseballs,” he says.  “Nothing beats it!  A signed baseball is at the very heart of collecting.”

In recent years, companies like Steiner Sports have introduced new and creative ways to collect, developing exciting new products and giving life to the game used industry.  Though the memorabilia industry has evolved, the simplicity that is an autographed baseball still reigns supreme in the collectibles world.

Why Collect Baseballs?

A baseball is inherently collectable.  It’s small in stature, but largely coveted.  Because they’re so little, autographed baseballs are very easily displayed and stored.  When wall space is at a premium, collectors opt to stack baseballs on shelves and desks rather than clutter up walls.

Its size also makes it a perfect candidate to bring to a public signing or the ballpark.  Collectors have a much easier time transporting a few baseballs than photos or jerseys.  Very rarely will a fan pull out a batting helmet inside a stadium and ask for a player’s autograph.  In addition, the clean white palette of every ball’s sweet spot provides the perfect canvas for baseball’s biggest stars to sign.

Which Players Should You Collect?

Like snowflakes, no two collections are alike.  The only similarity from one to the next is the emotional investment made along the way.  While some choose to collect top players, potentially bringing the largest payday down the line, others prefer to gather autographed baseballs from players they grew up watching and have a connection to.

“I collect moments,” says Steiner.  “I go to games with my son, I watch players develop and improve, those are the things that move me as a collector.  Those items will always have value to me.”

Since determining a ball’s monetary worth over time is not an exact science, it’s important to collect players of personal rooting interest.  This approach will ensure long term satisfaction for the collector.

If looking for a little more direction, Steiner recommends collecting those who are, quite simply, best at what they do.

“If I were starting a collection today, I’d focus on my top ten,” says Steiner.  “I’d have to get a ball from Mickey [Mantle], Ted Williams, and Joe DiMaggio…have to start with those guys.”   Rounding out Steiner’s top ten are: Derek Jeter, Mariano Rivera, Nolan Ryan, Willie Mays, Hank Aaron, Cal Ripken, Jr., and Sandy Koufax.

Protect What You Collect!

Sports memorabilia is meant to be enjoyed by everyone, not hidden away in a closet or attic somewhere.  Of course, it is up to the individual collector to decide how best to exhibit a collection.  No matter what forum is selected, one rule should always apply: keep autographed baseballs out of direct sunlight!

In order to maintain its white complexion and crisp signature, avoiding open windows and bright rooms is key.  The ideal shelter for these gems are behind UV protected glass – not an expensive proposition, and completely worth it over the course of time.  When investing time and money into a collection, protect it, and put it in position to last a long time.

Your Memories are Authentic, Your Signed Baseballs Should Be Too!

“There’s nothing like meeting a player and having him sign a ball for you,” claims Steiner.  “You will always have that story to tell and it adds a personal touch to the collection.”

If a collector can’t personally witness a ball being signed, it’s important to acquire items from a trusted source.  There’s a lot of stress involved in purchasing a signed baseball on the second-hand market.  One might never feel completely confident that what they own is real.  More often than not, it’s worth spending a little more for the peace of mind that comes with owning an authentic piece of memorabilia.

“Why would you get a baseball that wasn’t authenticated?  It’s foolish,” says Steiner.  “If someone told you they had a great deal on a Mercedes, but all the logos would be stripped from the car, including the hood…would you still want it?  Would you still feel good driving it?  Having our hologram on a baseball adds to the value and selling power, should you decide to sell your collection some day.”

Companies like Steiner Sports guarantee the authenticity of their hand signed collectibles.  Each item autographed at a Steiner Sports signing is witnessed by a Steiner representative before being cataloged and inventoried.  Athletes are asked to sign an affidavit to document the date and location of the signing and a tamper-proof hologram is affixed to each item, declaring it 100% real.  Certificates of Authenticity are also issued, further guaranteeing its genuineness.  Such measures not only provide serenity, but will help the item maintain value over time.

Collect with Passion

It would be naïve to think that collectors looking for financial gain don’t exist.  There are some who collect baseballs to eventually sell them off for a profit.  However, if monetary goals were paramount, there are other, more lucrative things to invest in.  People choose to collect signed baseballs because they are passionate about, well…baseball.

Many collectors have aspirations of one day passing their prized possessions onto their children, a symbolic way to share the stories of their childhood, and at the same time, leave behind a piece of themselves.

For some, collecting baseballs is an escape from reality, a source of pleasure, and a way to preserve the accomplishments of childhood heroes.  Whatever the reason, Steiner has one simple piece of advice for all involved.

“I always tell people to have fun with their collection,” he says.  “If you aren’t having fun, what’s the point?”

For instant updates, and more exclusive insider access, follow me on Twitter here.

E-Mail me at jklein@steinersports.com

By Jason Klein  Archive.  Twitter.  Contact Me.

Cowboy Down.

David Ortiz, the face of the 2004 and 2007 World Champion Boston Red Sox, is the latest name connected to the, once anonymous, 2003 performance enhancing drug test, according to a New York Times Report.  Ortiz joins Alex Rodriguez, Barry Bonds, and Sammy Sosa as the most prominent names to come out from that list of 104 names.  Former Red Sox teammate, Manny Ramirez, who already served a 50 game suspension this year for his use of PED’s, was also on the 2003 list, according to today’s report

Maybe they were a bunch of “Idiots” after all.

Confirmation of Ortiz’s link to steroids comes as a mild surprise to those who follow the game.  One of the most likable players in the game, prior to 2003, Ortiz’s highest home run total came in 2002 with Minnesota when he finished with just 20 home runs.  The following season, the year he reportedly tested positive, he jumped to 31 home runs.  From 2004-2007, Ortiz blasted 41, 47, 54, & 35 respectively.  Evidence of a hitter “coming into his own,” or did Ortiz have some artificial assistance? 

In the two seasons following the release of the Mitchell Report in December 2007, Ortiz’s power numbers have suffered dramatically.  With today’s announcement, his lack of production in recent years appears to be no coincidence, especially to steroid guru, and former Major Leaguer, Jose Canseco.

When asked his thoughts on today’s announcements, Canseco scoffed: “When you tell me something I didn’t already know, I’ll be surprised.”

Though fans have always been suspicious of Ortiz, many who know him personally were blown away by the news.

“This hurts, this really hurts,” former Twins teammate Tori Hunter told ESPN.  “I don’t know what to think about this. I guess you just never know what people do in the dark.”

When confronted by members of the media on Thursday, Ortiz refused to comment on the situation.  What could he say?  With each revelation, fans are numbed to the fact that the entire era is tainted.  It is impossible to decipher who did it and who didn’t simply based on those who have been outed.  Instead, all players are guilty by association.  It’s unfortunate, but it’s the reality.

To paraphrase from the great Jerry Seinfeld, today we learned that back in 2003, Papi was a little sloppy.  There are many responsible for this Major League-sized mess, though.  Ortiz is just the latest superstar caught. 

It’s another dark day for baseball.  Another Cowboy down.

For instant updates, and more exclusive insider access, follow me on Twitter here.

E-Mail me at jklein@steinersports.com

By Jason Klein  Archive.  Twitter.  Contact Me.

Every dog has his day.  Michael Vick will get his shortly.  After serving 23 months on a dogfighting conviction, Vick became a free man on Monday, opening the door for reinstatement into the NFL.  Next up for the ostracized quarterback: a meeting with NFL Commissioner, Roger Goodell.

In that meeting, Vick will have to demonstrate genuine remorse over his actions and make Goodell believe his intentions are good.  Ultimately, whether Vick ever takes another snap in the NFL rests in the commissioner’s hands.

Assuming all goes well, it will be a long, and difficult road back for the one-time face of the Atlanta Falcons, but it’s an opportunity he deserves.  No one is debating that Vick’s involvement with dogfighting was a disgusting and heinous crime.  However, just like any convicted criminal returning to society after serving their time, Vick deserves the right to earn a living.  It just so happens that in his line of work, the entire world gets to watch along.

So far, Vick has attempted to use his fame, or infamy, to his advantage along the comeback trail.  In a positive PR play, he has joined forces with the Humane Society, the nation’s largest animal welfare organization.  According to Humane Society President and CEO, Wayne Pacelle, Vick will appear in some PSA’s and help educate America’s youth by rolling up his sleeves and appearing at urban centers to denounce dogfighting. 

Pacelle believes that it’s important for everyone to keep their focus on the real task at hand, “I don’t think anyone was tougher on [Vick] than we were,” he said.  “But the goal was never the continued punitive treatment of Michael Vick. The goal has always been to eradicate dogfighting in America and around the world.”

With Vick’s debt to society paid, and his willingness to help others learn from his mistakes, the stage is set for his gridiron return.  He hasn’t played an NFL game since December 31, 2006, but at age 29, Vick is young enough where he could recover from a long layoff and once again have an impact in the league. 

Assuming he is physically capable, and baring any further legal issues, a team in legitimate need of a quarterback will give him a shot.  If he can still help a team win games, some owner out there will take the PR hit and bark up that tree.  Every dog has his day, Michael Vick will get his, which team will give it to him?

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