well this sucks.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/americas/7880287.stm?lss
Baseball star admits steroid use
By Matthew Price
BBC News, New York
Alex Rodriguez is baseball's highest paid player
American baseball has been thrown into disarray after its highest-paid player, Alex Rodriguez, admitted using performance-enhancing drugs.
The 33-year-old, known as A-Rod by fans, said he took steroids for several years - but he denies using them now.
Baseball has been hurt in recent years by a series of allegations involving drug use and corruption.
Mr Rodriguez signed a 10-year contract with the New York Yankees just over a year ago for a reported $275m (£185m).
In contemporary baseball, they do not get bigger than Rodriguez.
As well as being the sport's highest-paid player, he has been romantically linked to Madonna, although both say they are simply good friends.
Tarnished game
In short, A-Rod is an American superstar and - until recently - a player who had been seen as the great hope for a tarnished game.
For years some of baseball's biggest names either admitted using or were accused of using performance enhancing drugs.
A-Rod appeared to be a fresh, clean, start. His admission about steroid use in 2003 is depressing for those in the US who regard baseball as the quintessential American pastime and expect more of its stars. Although assuming A-Rod continues hitting home runs for the Yankees when the season starts again, many fans may not be that bothered.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/americas/7880287.stm?lss
Baseball star admits steroid use
By Matthew Price
BBC News, New York
Alex Rodriguez is baseball's highest paid player
American baseball has been thrown into disarray after its highest-paid player, Alex Rodriguez, admitted using performance-enhancing drugs.
The 33-year-old, known as A-Rod by fans, said he took steroids for several years - but he denies using them now.
Baseball has been hurt in recent years by a series of allegations involving drug use and corruption.
Mr Rodriguez signed a 10-year contract with the New York Yankees just over a year ago for a reported $275m (£185m).
In contemporary baseball, they do not get bigger than Rodriguez.
As well as being the sport's highest-paid player, he has been romantically linked to Madonna, although both say they are simply good friends.
Tarnished game
In short, A-Rod is an American superstar and - until recently - a player who had been seen as the great hope for a tarnished game.
For years some of baseball's biggest names either admitted using or were accused of using performance enhancing drugs.
A-Rod appeared to be a fresh, clean, start. His admission about steroid use in 2003 is depressing for those in the US who regard baseball as the quintessential American pastime and expect more of its stars. Although assuming A-Rod continues hitting home runs for the Yankees when the season starts again, many fans may not be that bothered.
