Life Of Jason

Of all the things I would have expected to see from some of the baseball players named in the Mitchell Report on steroid use in baseball the letter I’m pasting from former Baltimore Orioles player Jay Gibbons.  Gibbons has contacted all 30 major league clubs asking for a minor league deal and the chance to prove himself but so far no one has offered him anything.

Here is the text of a letter he has sent to all major league clubs:

Writing this letter is both painful and humiliating. It has been almost six weeks since my release from the Orioles and I am still unable to land any opportunity at a second chance to play the game that I love.

I am young, healthy and determined. I have acknowledged and apologized for the mistake that I made and writing this letter should be proof enough that I have indeed suffered for my mistake. I have faith and hope that some team will give me the chance to prove that I can not only be a productive player but also be a stellar member of their organization. My faith in a second chance has inspired me to work harder than I have at any time in my life. My faith has gotten me through this most difficult period in my life.

All I need is a chance — any chance — anywhere. I am more than willing to begin the process of proving that I can and will be a productive major league player by playing in the minor leagues. As you know, I have played seven seasons in the big leagues and have hit 20-plus homeruns in three seasons and have hit .277 in three seasons (2003, 2005 and 2006).

At 31 years old, I have NO DOUBT that my best baseball is ahead of me. I know that my agents at ACES have tried to land me an opportunity in the minor leagues but have been met with negative responses by each and every Organization.

I am not blind to the fact that I have made a mistake and that mistake has raised doubt about my character and ability. It is important that you know that my indiscretions, while regretful, were made in an effort to heal a nagging wrist injury. I would encourage you to speak with anyone in this game, including players, coaches, front office etc. who know me. I am confident that everyone you speak with will vouch for my character. I respectfully and humbly request that you grant me the chance to play for your organization.

I am so willing to prove myself as a player, and a person, that I will donate ALL of my minor league earnings to your Club’s charity. In the event that I earn the right to play at the major league level, I will gladly donate a significant sum to that same charity.

Once again, all I need is a chance and I will prove that I can be an extremely productive player and a great addition to your organization. Please feel free to contact me directly [phone numbers redacted].

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely, Jay Gibbons

OK, I’m the first to admit that I came down very harsh on the players who were named in the report and have gone as far as to get rid of the things I owned with Lenny Dykstra’s name on it because he continues to deny his involvement even after ample evidence to contradict him.  However, when I see Gibbons’ letter and the way he at least takes responsibility for his actions (I’d rather he’d say “I was stupid” rather than taking a “regretful” action) I really feel like this guy at least deserves the shot to prove that he can do it without the juice.

If he was denying he did it, I’d say no way.  That’s why I think it’s fine Bonds isn’t getting any play from any teams.  But this guy at least admits he did it.

I hope he gets the shot although so far no major league club has offered the guy a shot in the minors.  From his stats, I would say he deserves the chance to try and prove he still has it at 31.  The Cardinals should sign him and send him to Springfield.  We’ll keep an eye on him.