Torii Hunter states the obvious

Everyone stand up and thank Torii Hunter for stating the obvious. After learning that home runs were down around Major League Baseball in the biggest drop in 15 years, the Los Angeles Angels center fielder said the following:

“I think the steroid testing has something to do with it,” he said. “If there were any guys who were taking it, they’re not taking it anymore. I’d say it’s a small percentage, but of course it’s going to have an impact.”

We appreciate Hunter bringing this to our attention, but everyone, even non-baseball fans, knew that home run production would drop drastically after MLB instituted this drug testing policy.

According to an ESPN.com story, 2.01 home runs were hit this season, with Detroit Tigers infielder Miguel Cabrera leading the American League (37) and Philadelphia Phillies first baseman Ryan Howard topping the National League (48). Hunter went on to say the NL has advantage in long balls with more smaller parks.

Everyone likes the home run. It’s sexy, flashy and downright beastly, at times. But, what’s wrong with a few stolen bases, hit-and-runs, sacrifice bunts and putting the strategy back into the game. I certainly don’t mind it. But then again, chicks dig the long ball, as Greg Maddux and Tom Glavine remind us.

Image: Newscom