For years it has seemed like New York’s biggest complaint about Alex Rodriguez is that he isn’t Derek Jeter. It never mattered what A-Rod did, it didn’t live up to what Jeter has already accomplished. In light of yesterday’s revelations, A-Rod can only hope he returns to a world where measuring up to Jeter is his biggest problem. The story seems unimpeachable and the charge is sensational: A-Rod failed a steroid test in 2003.
Did he do it? Jose Canseco certainly thought so, but A-Rod has previously denied using any PED’s. He refused comment on this story and that is certainly his prerogative, but at this point he has to step forward and address this issue. It is telling that a Sports Illustrated reporter presented A-Rod with this evidence on Thursday, but the Yankees never knew about it until after the story broke. A-Rod works on his own level. When trouble strikes he retreats to his inner circle and remains quiet.
That is the biggest mistake he could ever make right now and if he chooses to stay quiet, he puts his entire legacy on the line. He has two choices, admit that he cheated or deny everything. He can look at Roger Clemens’ life as a good example of what would happen if he denied everything. Conversely, look at Andy Pettitte, who admitted his mistake and still is loved by most of the Yankees’ fan base.
Admittedly, the stakes are much higher for Clemens and A-Rod. They were certain Hall of Famers before these allegations came up, but A-Rod cannot think long term. If he did fail the test, he needs to admit it and tell everyone exactly what he did. He needs to be complete and unlike Pettitte he needs to tell everything the first time. Sure, many people will see him as a cheater no matter what and the Hall of Fame is a long shot if he used steroids. But, A-Rod’s name will not appear on a Hall of Fame ballot for at least 14 years. If he did it, Alex should tie his fortunes to a contrite apology and hope that time truly does heal all wounds.
