Don't You Just Hate It When This Happens?

[MikeStrybel]

Originally Posted by yawetag

Not to argue the point, but do you think we should outlaw driving because someone was driving recklessly and died?

Andrew, you are employing a false analogy here. A better comparison would be drinking alcohol and driving, but that would defeat your contention. We prohibit alcohol use and driving just as we restrict access to tobacco for use by minors. Society acknowledges that it is irresponsible to tolerate either.

The comment I made regarding Brett Butler still not seeing the light is proof that some people still cannot accept limitations. The man almost died from his lack of restraint. Teammates are on the record about his habit and how disgusting it was. After his chemo treatments, he had to receive special clearance from MLB to carry a water bottle in his back pocket while playing center field because his mouth was so dry. Some kid out there is probably thinking the same thing, Brett did it and was okay, so can I. That's why a ban is probably a good thing.

It's probable that some clubs will initiate restrictions first. Just as the A's and Cardinals have banned alcohol from the clubhouse (they were public, but there may be more), others will likely take steps to limit the exposure of personnel to the risks of tobacco. A number of clubs restrict freedoms already - from facial hair to dress code. The Player's Union doesn't have a problem with the limitations I have listed.