like the Yankees’ starting lineup — is a relic of the past. And while New York’s aging superstars might still be able to pull together a winning season, it’s past time for Major League Baseball to ban this dangerous habit from the diamond.
About a third of major leaguers still chew. But with every passing season, baseball’s tolerance for tobacco use, and the disgusting spectacle of grown men spitting on the field like llamas, has become more of an embarrassment for the national pasttime. Unfortunately, Red Sox manager Terry Francona has been one of the most visible offenders.
Now, frustrated by baseball’s inaction and alarmed by an uptick in smokeless tobacco use among teenage boys, the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, the American Medical Association, and public health officials from Boston and 14 other big league cities are demanding a ban starting next season. Commissioner Bud Selig said yesterday he supports a ban, but the players’ union also must consent. Anyone who’s had to explain to a child what exactly is in the players’ mouths would surely hope they do.
From the first trading cards, baseball has had a long relationship with smokeless tobacco. Now the league should do its part for public health by finally pulling tobacco out of the lineup.
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