“Steroids are artificially produced hormones that are similar to testosterone” (Downshen). Testosterone is a natural male hormone that gives a man his traits. The major contribution of steroids is to increase the male’s testosterone, which in turn, allows the male to become stronger and gain weight. With a greater body mass and strength, players can take an edge over other players. “Former major leaguer Ken Caminiti says he was on steroids when he won the National League Most Valuable Player Award in 1996” (Sports Illustrated). This is a perfect example of a player going from an average player to a National League All Star. The effects of steroids are very

Steroids are also very controversial because of the health risks that are involved, so most are illegal and banned from professional sports. If a player is caught using them, their career can and should be over. Steroids have many psychological effects, “some user’s become aggressive or combative, developing “’roid rage,” or extreme uncontrolled bouts of anger caused by long-term steroid use” (Brainum). Many of the long-term effects may not show up for years, former Los Angeles Raider Lyle Alzado “believed his prolonged use of steroids… …he died” (Downshen). This clearly demonstrates how deadly steroids can be and should deter any sane man from trying them.

powerful on the body and the mind. Players can see their improvements so they continue to use steroids because their mind is focused on becoming stronger and quicker.

There are many legal alternatives to steroids that are safe and effective. The most popular types are “creatine, protein powders, prohormone supplements, and ephedrine products” (Steroidinformatoin) and are widely used by body builders and athletes. These products are designed to increase a person’s size and strength without damaging the body or having negative side effects. The aforementioned products would all be great alternatives for baseball players. Giving up illegal steroids that damage the body for alternative supplements would make fans realize that baseball is doing something about the steroid issue and perhaps increase the game’s popularity.

There are many dangers associated with taking steroids. The side effects can vary from person to person but some of the less serious side effects include “acne, purple or red spots o

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