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| Public Apology | 05.09.07 at 1:53 pm ET |
Everyone has days and events in life they’d love to push the rewind button on, yesterday was one of those days. Regardless of my opinions, thoughts and beliefs on anything Barry Bonds it was absolutely irresponsible and wrong to say what I did. I don’t think it’s within anyone’s right to say the things I said yesterday and affect other people’s lives in that way.
I’d love to tell you I was ambushed, misquoted, misinterpreted, something other than what it was, but I wasn’t. I’m thinking that waking up at 8:30 am to do the weekly interview we do with WEEI is probably not the greatest format and if you heard the interview it’s not hard to realize that I’m usually awake about 30-45 seconds before it begins. That’s still no excuse or reason to say what I did, or even answer the question that was asked. The question I was asked and the answer I gave yesterday affected a lot more people than just he and I. His wife, his children, his friends and his family were all affected by that, as were mine and my teammates.
As someone who’s made it very clear I have major issues with members of the media that take little or no pride in their work it’s the height of hypocrisy for me to say what I did, in any forum. I started this blog to give people a look into the life we live on and off the field, not to get into back and forths with people I don’t like or have issues with. Doing that will only make this a rant-filled, no content bunch of words.
Quite a few people have tossed Biblical references my way in the past week or so after the Thorne incident in Baltimore talking about turning the other cheek and being above the fray. I’ve often thought I do and try to be that way, but it’s very clear in the last two weeks I’ve done the exact opposite. That’s not to say I won’t respond when I feel someone’s calling me out and is wrong, but doing so in every instance will serve no one and only make me say and act like the very people I have issues with.
The only perfect human to walk the face of the earth died a few thousand years ago, that much I know. I am far from perfect and make more than my share of mistakes, which is something I have no problem with because that’s part of being human. However when my mistakes adversely affect other peoples lives, that’s a big deal. It was a callous, reckless and irresponsible thing to say, and for that I apologize to Barry, Barry’s family, Barry’s friends and the Giants organization, my teammates and the Red Sox organization as well as anyone else who may have been offended by the comments I made.
May 9th, 2007 at 2:06 pm
It takes a bigger man to admit mistakes. And a wise man to know that grace is an amazing thing.
May 9th, 2007 at 2:07 pm
You have successfully eliminated the need for the sportswriter with your blog, so I would suggest that you also choose to antiquate radio by taking your public comments directly to the people in the form of a “38 Pitches Podcast” and dominate yet another form of alternative media.
May 9th, 2007 at 2:11 pm
Curt, you’re right that everyone makes mistakes and you did the right thing in apologizing.
The bigger problem though, especially for me as a Red Sox fan, is that it’s harder to give you the benefit of the doubt on every other controversy when we have hard evidence that you do shoot your mouth off. I hope you’re asking yourself now what you can do to make sure this doesn’t happen again.
P.S. Don’t blame the format; you’ve been answering reporters’ questions for over 15 years. You’ve been doing this way too long to let your emotions take over.
May 9th, 2007 at 2:16 pm
Personally, I wasn’t offended, and I agreed with every last word you said. While your mea culpa is admirable, I suppose, it won’t change the way the fans feel.
May 9th, 2007 at 2:23 pm
Ey mang, joo think too much bout things that no matter. Come on, mang. Barry Bonds all the way on the West Coast and we here in Boston, mang.
People ask me all the frigging time why I no do interviews on EEI, mang. I say to them, joo never know what they gonna say next.
All I gots to say is God Bless Jesus, joo made a mistake, you kiss it up to him and joo keeps on pitching, mang.
Toronto too cold for Manny, mang. If I not there tonight tell Tito I selling my Escalade.
Peace
May 9th, 2007 at 2:24 pm
I was disappointed when I first heard you getting into this issue but proud of the way you responded and took the blame.
Well done and keep going.
Dave
May 9th, 2007 at 2:30 pm
Curt,
Let’s just leave it at this. I agree with how you felt and what you said, both yesterday & today.
May 9th, 2007 at 2:31 pm
Curt,
I am disappointed by your comments about Bonds - not because I think you were incorrect, but how vastly different they were from your testimony before Congress where you called Canseco a liar, said “”In 19 years in the big leagues, I have never seen a syringe,” and said “”If there are loopholes … we will close them.” (http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=2014564) I wish you would get your story straight. I’d like to see a player for once get rid of all the bullcrap and tell us what’s really going on, because all this hiding and subterfuge and double-talk is really hurting the game. I agree with what Buster Olney said.. if you really wanted to be indignant about steroids in baseball, you should have done it before Congress.
All in all, I can’t help but think that all this Bonds talk is distracting the Sox during a really great season. I hope you guys keep your focus and keep winning. Go Sox!
May 9th, 2007 at 2:33 pm
Curt.
What you said is what most of us think about the situation, it was nice to hear someone from the baseball world finally say how most of us feel. You are correct however,
“Regardless of my opinions, thoughts and beliefs on anything Barry Bonds it was absolutely irresponsible and wrong to say what I did. I don’t think it’s within anyone’s right to say the things I said yesterday and affect other peoples lives in that way.”
Most people don’t have the guts/balls to fess up and admit that what they said was wrong. I can’t tell you how much more of a fan you made me and I didn’t think that was possible.
Have fun smokin’ Baltimore on Sat. Send Millar our love!
Rich
myspace.com/socalsox
May 9th, 2007 at 2:35 pm
I realize that it must be a hard line to keep on one side of in terms of deciding whether or not to speak your mind/opinion about something. But I for one was glad you did with respect to speaking your opinion of steriods. Could the words have been chosen differently? Sure. I hope that in the future you still choose to speak your opinion. If it’s an explosive topic… well I still hope you speak your opinion
Ya I realize we all say things we shouldn’t from time to time. But more often than not I bet it’s remorse over the words chosen to express an opinion than actually expressing the opinion.
May 9th, 2007 at 2:35 pm
Curt that was a nice statement. It’s understandable where you were coming from when a (work) colleague puts a bad name on your sport, it’s only natural to not be happy and take offense to it. No one can fault you for that. Barry needs to be as big of a man as you were and speak out and apologize for all of the lies that he keeps denying. The country knows he was wrong..the commissioner (as awful as he is) knows he was wrong..and Barry knows he was wrong. Hopefully none of his contoversy is overlooked in Cooperstown. It would be a shame to be walking through the Hall and see Barry’s mug on the wall. Can’t wait for your next start Curt… Keep on Keepin on!!!
May 9th, 2007 at 2:36 pm
I applaud you Mr. Schilling for stating in public that you believe you made a mistake - I think it takes a great depth of character for someone to admit, publicly or privately, that s/he has made a mistake..
May 9th, 2007 at 2:36 pm
Now recognizing your own hipocrisy is just another way of proving that you take responsibility in your own actions unlike other people in the media. It’s great to see you use this forum to apologize publicly thanks for always being a class act Curt.
May 9th, 2007 at 2:37 pm
Way to ‘man-up.’ Just another example of how our heroes are human, which, seems to be exactly the point of this blog.
May 9th, 2007 at 2:41 pm
well this certainly has gone from outlandish to utterly ridiculous.
May 9th, 2007 at 2:42 pm
You are a big man Curt. I was so upset with you earlier. To come out with an apology like this shows us the kind of guy you are. Thanks for your honesty…
Rich
http://www.rdwagner.com
May 9th, 2007 at 2:42 pm
Schill,
Theres no need for an apology. You said alot of things that many of us agree on.
He cheated, and he knows he did.
May 9th, 2007 at 2:43 pm
Nice apology. You’re a mensch.
So not a Bonds fan, even when we lived in the Bay Area. I have to wonder if the tables were turned, if Barry would have apologized to you. Not that it matters, but I do wonder.
May 9th, 2007 at 2:43 pm
Curt,
I can respect your apology. Still don’t respect Bonds.
May 9th, 2007 at 2:44 pm
I have to admit I was a little shocked when I read your initial comments about BB. I was hoping you would post a comment about it. I was really hoping you were misquoted!
Most people in this world would never own up to a mistake, let alone, take responsibility for their actions (its always someone else’s fault). Thank you for taking the higher ground and thank you for being a man about it.
frogsox says Sox Rock.
May 9th, 2007 at 2:45 pm
He never admitted to using roids. Let’s move on, you have a long season. He’ll get the record, hopefully you’ll get another ring.
May 9th, 2007 at 2:45 pm
I’ve been reading your blog for a while because I quite enjoy your recap of the games and how you approach each hitter. I think young pitchers can learn a lot about the mental game by reading your blog.
Today, I learned too that you’re a good person, besides being a talented athlete. Your apology was well-written and sincere. Young men reading your blog now have an example of how to be responsible for your words and what to do when you mess up.
I thank you for providing this example.
May 9th, 2007 at 2:46 pm
Puh-lease.
May 9th, 2007 at 2:47 pm
You were right in what you had said. The vast majority of people feel the way you do, and, I’m sure, history will judge the target of your distaste in a manner befitting his actions. The game is too important (no matter that is ‘just’ a game) to too many people to have people who seek individual glory at the expense of honor.
May 9th, 2007 at 2:48 pm
Personally I don’t have any particular problem with you having an opinion on Bonds… but THANK YOU for apologizing and making this mind-numbing story go away. Gawd, for every story about what you or any other athlete thinks of Bonds, there should be ten stories about how great Josh Beckett is.
May 9th, 2007 at 2:48 pm
Curt I respect the fact that you came out and apologized for the comments my only problem with it is I don’t think you should have to. I understand the implications of the comments you made but really how many people around the country aren’t thinking or saying the same thing on a daily basis. Not so much on his personal life but about the steroid issue. I commend you on speaking publicly on that subject.
May 9th, 2007 at 2:49 pm
I guess here is the part when all your adoring fans pour in forgiving you for everything you’ve ever done and saying “it’s okay curt keep your head up. You’ll bounce back, you always have.”
Jose Canseco is right, you are a politician and a liar.
It’s obvious you really feel this way your just doing the “political thing” right now and backtracking.
We all know how you feel about every issue, it’s not a secret.
Hypocrite.
P.S. Dipset bitch
May 9th, 2007 at 2:50 pm
Curt,
You are a moron and a hypocrite, just play baseball and keep your mouth closed, you are a baseball player not a politician. Barry Bonds is the best contact hitter ever to play baseball with or without steriods. You probably did steriods yourself. Get a life and stop making yourself sound like an idiot in front of our country
May 9th, 2007 at 2:50 pm
Curt your a joke! Your comments about Bonds admitting to taking steroids, cheating on his wife, and cheating on his taxes are a bald face lie. Where do you think you get off! Why don’t you start calling out players in the Red Sox’s clubhouse who cheated on their wives? Or better yet Schilling are you perfect you’ve never told a lie? Come on your a joke you should stick to what you do good and shut up and pitch and stop creating distractions for your team! I am sure your skipper loves it when you make stupid comments, which you do more often then not, and cause drama in your club house. Where do you get off questioning another mans faithfulness to his wife. In the real world, which believe me you don’t live in, those are fighting words. If you were really such a big man you would pitch to Barry every time he was up and not walk him. Look at the “steroid era”, and read what your teammate Ortiz said, according to reports steroid use was rampant during that time still no one else puts up numbers even close to Bonds. In closing to everyone calling Barry a “bad person” are you perfect dig deep enough everyone has skeletons in their closet. Everyone playing in that era is under suspicion of steroid yes including you Curt have you ever used because by your logic and investigators logic Barry is guilty until proven innocent why shouldn’t you be?
May 9th, 2007 at 2:50 pm
You are a standup guy curt.
p.s. I still hate the red sox.
May 9th, 2007 at 2:51 pm
Actually, he did admit to “unknowingly” using roids. He also cheated on his wife. Not sure about the tax thing but apparently there have been questions about if he declared income from baseball card signings and I believe he paid a fine for that.
So, you were pretty much 3 for 3. Not sure you could have hurt Barry’s family anymore than he has done himself.
May 9th, 2007 at 2:52 pm
It is true that what was said on EEI may not have been true, but the fact of the matter is, MLB has banned players from baseball for cheating and anything that might promote cheating. How is number 25 exempt from this? Curt stick to the issue and leave out the hear say. When you do that, I think you will find we agree.
May 9th, 2007 at 2:52 pm
Wow Curt, That was extremely noble of you. However, You are entitled to an opinion. Everyone is. thats part of what makes our society unique. but I understand why you feel the need to apologize. (but I agree with everything you said)
Noone is perfect and we all say and do things at one point or another we wish we could take back. rest easy curt.
Please dont stop talking on EEI. I really look forward to your interviews. But perhaps you could wake up for 10 minutes first..
Take care
Erika
May 9th, 2007 at 2:53 pm
I guess here is the part when all your adoring fans pour in forgiving you for everything you’ve ever done and saying “it’s okay curt keep your head up. You’ll bounce back, you always have.”
Jose Canseco is right, you are a politician and a liar.
It’s obvious you really feel this way your just doing the “political thing” right now and backtracking.
We all know how you feel about every issue, it’s not a secret.
Hypocrite.
P.S. Dipset
May 9th, 2007 at 2:53 pm
you shouldn’t have apologized. He brougth this on himself. I’m sick of everyone having to apologize in this country for hurting someone’s feelings. You have a right to speak your your mind and you were right. He cheated on his wife and the game.
on a side note, i love how espn was on barry’s side saying he never has admitted that he has taken steroids or cheated on his wife. I guess they don’t remember his grand jury testimony about steroids and kim bell(i think that was her name).
May 9th, 2007 at 2:54 pm
Not that many ppl disagree with how you feel but I’m curious if you’ve attempted to contact him directly to apologize for the attack on his personal life?
May 9th, 2007 at 2:55 pm
Unsolicited, slanderous ramblings one day + lame “sincere” apology the next day = Two Full Days of News Cycle Attention for Red Light
Too bad you didn’t air your apology thru Shaughnessy rather then your blog, then you’d be able to tack on a third day complaining about how you were misquoted by media members with an agenda…
May 9th, 2007 at 2:56 pm
curt,
it takes a lot of strength to apologize like this. i am proud to be a reader and fellow blogger. thank you for your decision to care for those around mr bonds by apologizing.
brad
May 9th, 2007 at 2:57 pm
Can’t we all just get along…
May 9th, 2007 at 2:57 pm
Well, you’ve got the asking for forgiveness part down. Now you just need to work on giving it.
I’m glad to hear you have no problem with you making mistakes because you realize you’re not Jesus (and I’m also relieved to hear that you realize you’re not Jesus). But I’m wondering if you can also realize that Barry Bonds isn’t Jesus either.
Once you get that far, maybe you can start to accept the fact that even Jesus wasn’t Jesus. But I imagine that will take time.
May 9th, 2007 at 2:58 pm
That slippery Dale Arnold and John Dennis used trickery on you, my pal.
Those ‘EEI guys would try to trip up their own kin for a few ratings points.
Sheesh — this makes my opinion of the media even lower.
Sad that these guys are so desperate.
May 9th, 2007 at 2:59 pm
This, as is often the case with you, rises above the careless, insensitive, egotistical comments some well known people make in the press. You often aim your remarks at specific individuals - Bonds, Lou Pinella, ARod, John Kerry, etc, in what seems to be an attempt to further some kind of agenda. It comes across as petty and childish most of the time, not to mention unprofessional. Being well known does not give you liscense to act in any way you see fit.
AN IDLE MOUTH GATHERS NO FOOT
May 9th, 2007 at 2:59 pm
Open mouth Insert Foot!!
Reopen mouth take foot out!
Do what Tito said today on Weei!! Just shut up!!!!!
May 9th, 2007 at 2:59 pm
Schilling,
How can anyone anywhere have any regard for what you say? You publicly decry the use of steroids and smere peoples names all over the media, yet you played on the Diamond Backs, where majority of the players were users of HGH and other anabolics. YOU HAD THE OPPORTUNITY TO SAY SOMETHING TO THE CONGRESS OF THE UNITED STATES, yet you cowered with your tail between your legs and said that you couldn’t be taken seriously… Congrats Schilling, you have the credibility of Mr. G W Bush.
May 9th, 2007 at 3:04 pm
Thanks for the apology, you didn’t need to in my book. The sad thing is while we don’t know for a fact about Bonds transgressions, he surely hasn’t denied them.
May 9th, 2007 at 3:04 pm
Curt - Stick to your guns man. I love the honesty and I have to think the retraction was something you were forced or guilted into. Whatever the reason..Bonds is a cheater we all know it..He’s sullied Baseball permanently.
May 9th, 2007 at 3:05 pm
ESPN… aka MTV SPORTS
ESPN took this, licked their chops, cracked their knuckles, and said “heres my chance to shine”. This was not a big deal CURT, ESPN took this and made it into a big deal. Thats what they do. They are the same network who didnt show about 10 minutes of a Monday Night Football Game because they had a celebrity guess from Desperate Housewives in the booth. It’s who they are, Glitz, Glammour, and all the crap that comes with it. Keep doing your thing, its a free country, you say what you want. Let ESPN play the role of the housewive with the picketsign. Take care Curt, this will pass
May 9th, 2007 at 3:05 pm
More people appreciate what you have said…say…or would like to say than you think. You have once again proven to be human, not a bad thing, not bad at all.
May 9th, 2007 at 3:06 pm
Curt,
All I can say is that you are a very classy guy and now even a bigger hero in my book, but sometimes ya gotta say what you feel at the time.
Take care,
May 9th, 2007 at 3:06 pm
Curt, these guys on WEEI are rippin’ you right now, but I say forget them, if you felt the need to apologize, I find it admirable.
May 9th, 2007 at 3:08 pm
Curt,
You’ve been hammering the media for their inconsistencies, and you threw a lot of mud yourself the other day. You’ve been hit really hard for your comments, especially on Mike and Mike this a.m., basically for “the pot calling the kettle black.” I’m not a Bond’s fan at all, and am convinced personally that he’s taken steroids (knowingly). But I saw no value in your involvement in the situation, and also thought your personal attacks against Bonds (cheating on wife and taxes, etc) were way over the line from a professional athlete with the religious beliefs we seem to share. But, we ALL make mistakes and I am impressed by your sincere apology. Had you limited your comments to his alleged steroid use, I honestly wouldn’t think you’d have owed anyone an apology - but again, why comment in the first place - doesn’t get you anywhere. Good luck overcoming this situation - have a feeling that you’ll put it behind you and continue to show your talent on the mound. But I’m sure we’ll have to revisit this over and over in the media when the Giants come in to town - they are sure to not let this die. But hope you do. I hope you know that we, your fans, will put the comments behind us, and cheer you on for the rest of the year.
May 9th, 2007 at 3:08 pm
Good for you. And Bonds is still an embarrassment to the game…
May 9th, 2007 at 3:09 pm
i respect schilling just a little more now that he’s shown the world that he should think before he opens his mouth!
a wise man once told me, “Better to keep your mouth closed and be thought a fool than to open it and remove all doubt”?
May 9th, 2007 at 3:10 pm
In my opinion what you said on eei was straight from the heart and was the correct assesment on the situation, Bonds is all those things you said, why appologize for it? I know it might of been pressure from team mates and all that which makes it difficult to work with day in and day out when some team mates are on bonds side, why are they? cause there idiots ortiz included if he thinks bonds is all natural steroid free then hes got the wool over his eyes.
May 9th, 2007 at 3:10 pm
I have the utmost respect for what you’ve given us over your illustrious career. I forget about all of that though when you open your mouth. Thorne, BB, it doesn’t matter. For a guy who detests the media, you sure utilize the right angles to get what you want published. You played into the media’s hands with your 2 page ‘victimization’ essay…spare us…we know the truth. That was so below you. Then, at an early 0830, w/ a mic shoved in your grill, you were coerced into another dilemma when Bonds became the subject. Again, shoulda taken the high road.
So, I guess my question is…when did the whole ‘public apology’ thing arise? Was that BEFORE Francona told you to STFU, or AFTER?
Fans pay your salary to see you pitch, not act like a tool.
Just pitch bro.
May 9th, 2007 at 3:11 pm
let’s just stick to baseball
May 9th, 2007 at 3:13 pm
Hey, I’m not a morning person either….it’s hard to think straight just after you wake up. We appreciate your frankness Curt, but agree you needed to apologize for the statements. Keep on doing what you’re doing and speaking your mind!
May 9th, 2007 at 3:14 pm
Curt -
While I certainly agree with the vast majority that Barry is a rather reprehensible human being, I admit I was a bit surprised by your comments. That said, I was relatively certain that you would be the first one to come forward and admit that you were wrong in what you said. It takes a big man to admit he was wrong, especially on the public stage. Once again, you prove that you are a man of great integrity. Kudos to you, Curt.
Warmest Wishes,
Dave in NY
May 9th, 2007 at 3:14 pm
Maybe you shouldnt have said what you did on the radio out of respect for his family and others involved……but you only said what EVERYONE else is thinking. Bud Selig thinks it….why else would he not plan on being at the game when Barry breaks the record? Hank Aaron thinks it…..why else would he also decide to stay at home in Florida and play golf that day? Barry Bonds is not exactly the poster boy for morals in the MLB and I am tired of the media jumping on the backs of those who are not afraid to voice their opinion on the subject.
May 9th, 2007 at 3:14 pm
Shut up and Pitch!
May 9th, 2007 at 3:15 pm
Schil,
It takes balls to apologize for that. But it isn’t even debatable whether or not Bonds is a cheater or a jerk. How many credible sources does Game of Shadows need to be considered truth? It is more credible than the Bible.
May 9th, 2007 at 3:15 pm
Curt,
Hey, thanks for the post since I was a little stunned by your comments. I’ve realized that how we communicate is as important to the content or our convictions.
People are looking to you to shoot your mouth off so don’t give them any ammunition.
Peace. I’m predicting 19-7 for you this year.
May 9th, 2007 at 3:16 pm
I personally don’t feel you have a thing to apologize for. You offered a heartfelt opinion about a known womanizer, tax cheat and chemistry experiment who walks all over everybody in his life and looks for a racial excuse under every rock. Although your blog is quite gracious and admirable, Bonds by all accounts is a despicable human being.
May 9th, 2007 at 3:16 pm
If I had a dime for every stupid thing you, er I said… Lighten up, Curt.
Okay, on to other things about Bonds. I asked a couple of times when you kicked off the blog and you’ve yet to answer. Are you going after him when he comes to Fenway this June?
If by the time he gets here, and Aarons record is on the line, what’s your take on pitchers/managers issuing IBB’s? Would Tito ask that of you? Would you do it?
If he’s elsewhere, what do you think other pitchers/managers are thinking?
Clearly, the controversy surrounding Barry has and will continue to be big news and leads a lot of fans to wonder how you think other MLB people are dealing with it.
Would appreciate your reply.
May 9th, 2007 at 3:16 pm
There was nothing wrong with what you said, Mr. Schilling.
All you did was say what everyone else thinks, but don’t have the guts and/or the platform to do so.
Bonds is a disgrace to the game, as are the ESPN ‘analysts’ who made you out to be a villain for the past twenty-four hours.
I know you stand by what you said, but had to apologize because your manager has no backbone and forced you to.
Nevertheless, I’m glad you said what you said. Like I said, any true fan will back you all the way.
May 9th, 2007 at 3:17 pm
You’re backing up this time almost as bad as you backed up in front of Congress a couple years ago.
http://www.sportsguyredux.blogspot.com
May 9th, 2007 at 3:24 pm
Poor Curt. Needed some attention? For all your posturing, it’s obvious you need the media attention to survive like most people need oxygen. I guess I might feel that way too, what with Beckett getting all the attention for his 7-0 start and Dice-K getting so much attention as well. Poor baby! Try not to let the Man get you down.
May 9th, 2007 at 3:28 pm
Curt,
People have various opinions about you.
Some think you should shut-up, some think otherwise.
Nevertheless, you’ve shown that you’re someone that has class with this apology.
Baseball players take steriods. Politicians do pork-barrel spending and continue to screw up the nation instead of righting the ship. Over 400,000 people have died due to the Genocide in Darfur.
All three instances are able to take place and we, the people, are to blame.
Do you think if there was an major out-cry by fans and/or players, that the problem of steriods would still prevail? If we hounded every athlete that uses performance enhancing drugs; If we critized the baseball steriod program.
(I’m exaggerating, but you have a better shot at winning the lottery than you do being chosen as a baseball player to be tested. Therefore, the odds are in your favor of taking performance enhancing drugs and not getting caught. And never mind the test themselves. They only test about small amount of drugs.)
If we want steriods out of baseball, we, the baseball fans, have to take action. Players, such as you, Mr. Schilling, have to take action.
Baseball’s not going to fix it themselves. And why should they?
People aren’t protesting the baseball because of the steriods problem. Instead, it’s getting more fans. More revenue. The baseball’s still strong.
Contrary to what people perceive baseball to be, it’s more of a corporation than it is a sport.
If women and blacks took in-action, do you think that they’d have the rights they have today?
We, the people, hold the power. All it takes is us. Don’t pass it on the other guy to fix. You help fix it.
With that kind of mentality, We can change baseball.
May 9th, 2007 at 3:28 pm
No apology necessary, I blame Dale Arnold.
Please ensure Barry B*nds does not break the record at Fenway. Feed him a steady diet of high cheese & chin music. Stick one in his earhole if needed.
May 9th, 2007 at 3:31 pm
In life we all lie or cheat in someway, and it is hard to judge other people. Although you were right about your statements, you are also right that you shouldn’t defame or disparage anyone in that instance. Apologies are always good but always hard. Bonds will receive his judgment in life much like everyone else, and examples like these go far beyond baseball. I appreciate that you can make a good example out of something bad. It’s always best to be the bigger person and walk away, and try as best as we can to act like the perfect example that the Lord gave us a couple of thousand years ago. You are still a good man in my book….
May 9th, 2007 at 3:32 pm
Curt,
I think you need to realize that people don’t need to hear your opinion on EVERY subject imaginable. All you do is complain about the media, but you pay for their salaries with your outburts. They ask you these questions about Bonds and other subject to get this type of response from you. You give into the media with your stupidity
Everyone knows Bonds cheated in some way and everyone hates Bonds. It will be the ultimate insult when Selig and Hank Aaron aren’t present when he breaks the Homerun Record. However your actions are only bring unneeded attention to the Red Sox and yourself.
The blog, radio appearances and tv interviews are a great way for you to give your opinion on your game, the red sox, and baseball. That’s it. Not everyone wants to hear your view on politics, religion, and other people’s personal lives. Even the blog you might say you can speak your mind and people can choose to read it or not, but you are an employee of the Red Sox. You need to represent them with the utmost class. If I went out and talked about someone in my industry, with such disdain for their personal life, I would be fired. However since you are a millionare and you can throw a baseball 95 mph, you get a pass.
Keep to what you know best before your fans turn on you. You commenting on Bonds and his personal life is below the belt, and I don’t care if you apologized or not, you still did it.
Everyone on this site kisses your ass. Your teamates can’t be happy with you. Now they have to answer questions like “how do you feel about what Curt said about Barry Bonds”. Now it makes you AND the Red Sox part ofthe story about Bonds. Now your manager has to answer questions for you.
Apologize to your teamates. Not us. I would take Francona’s advice though and shut up.
May 9th, 2007 at 3:32 pm
Curt I THINK YOU SHOULD NOT APOLIGIZE THIS IS YOUR BLOG .You spoke about what everybody else is scared to say. I never here shawnesy Apoligize about the trash he writes and you shouldnt we live in a country where we have freedom of speech 2.Curt keep up the blog I enjoy it.and STRIKE OUT BONDS WHEN HE COMES TO FENWAY
May 9th, 2007 at 3:32 pm
Barry is scum. While you may have stated somethings incorrectly regarding what he has admitted to doing. The fact of the matter is he is a douche. I hope today’s blog was only a result of fanatic political correctness forced on celebrities by the media.
Go Yankees
May 9th, 2007 at 3:37 pm
Yesterday’s move was classless. You really put the “ass” in class, Curt.
Here’s hoping Barry charges the mound in August!
May 9th, 2007 at 3:38 pm
Bonds cares only for Bonds. I wonder what the rotation will look like when the Giants come to town. Could be interesting doncha think?
May 9th, 2007 at 3:38 pm
bonds is bonds, there’s nothing anyone can really do about the situation. put an asterisk next to his name like maris when he had 20 more games to break ruth’s record? focus on that world series, this sox team is real good.. the pitching rotation and bullpen is deep, and as we’ve seen the playoffs are about pitching. don’t worry about bonds, people are going to give you shit abotu it now as well, perhaps just to get to you, just say what you got to say on the field. baseball seems like an art sometimes right
May 9th, 2007 at 3:39 pm
Curt, please do us all a favor and SHUT UP. Seriously, we don’t care about your opinion. You ALWAYS have to give your opinion to the public on ANY subject. WE DON’T CARE. I’m so sick and tired of hearing your name come up in the media. Do what Francona said and shut up. We’re all tired of it. At least everyone but your homer Sox fans.
May 9th, 2007 at 3:39 pm
Also, that guy Glen Oordway is trying to instigate something, Curt.
Don’t take the bait — his ratings are down and he is desperate to get them back up. Sad.
May 9th, 2007 at 3:40 pm
You had your chance in front of congress and you didnt say crap, you actually back-pedaled. If you wanted to say something you shouldve said it then.
You are a joke.
Get off this blog. Jerk.
May 9th, 2007 at 3:41 pm
I didn’t expect anything less from you Curt, none of us did. I would assume that many of the Bible verses being tossed your way were the only one’s their respective tossers were familiar with.
As you alluded to, being saved isn’t about being better than everyone else, it’s about knowing you’re not.
May 9th, 2007 at 3:42 pm
Amazing what a new day can bring Curt. The real story is in how your fans state, “Curt, we deeply appreciate you for saying what we’ve been thinking about this guy all along” and, oh, by the way, the jesture of apologizing makes us look better. Although, in that apology somehow we’re justified in attacking this man, his kids and family. My son wants to know why you had to speak so hurtful towards Barry and his family?
May 9th, 2007 at 3:43 pm
Ey mang, the Manny Ramirez comments are great (keep them coming). Love the Red Sox, but the media there sucks. Maybe I am not following things as closely as everyone else but why is Jose Canseco calling you a hypocrite and a liar?
May 9th, 2007 at 3:43 pm
Nicely done.
Sometimes no matter what we think it is better left unsaid and I am sure that Barry has paid in many ways for his transgressions in life already. Sad part is it all takes away from the fact that this guy was a five tool player and one of the greatest players of all times and the best player his generation offered.
I have always admired your acheivements on the field and been entertained by your open nature. Today I was pleased to see that you were also big enough a person to apologize for taking the scope of the conversation beyond baseball.
I agree that we are all flawed and with those they say you are a Mench. As bad a day as yesterday was, today is that good for those of us who take pride in being a fan of yours.
Thank you.
May 9th, 2007 at 3:44 pm
I have to second the opinion that the person that signs in as Manny Ramirez is GREAT…I sign on as much to read those posts as I do to read Curts. Keep up the good work!!!!!!!
May 9th, 2007 at 3:44 pm
There is no need to apologize.
May 9th, 2007 at 3:45 pm
Let me get this straight.
Bonds does not apologize to Hank Aaron. Bonds does not even make a Giambi-like half-apology to fans. We teach our kids that Bonds is the worst sort of offender — it’s bad to transgress, worse to not admit it (McGwire), worse still to beligerently lie and show no remorse.
But YOU apologize?
Sorry, I don’t get it. Yesterday you had the courage to say the Empereror Had No Clothes, that we’re enduring a ludicrous charade where a criminal defrauds a genuine hero (Aaron) while we all step aside because of technicalities.
Today you say “Well the Emperor may or not be wearing clothes, who am I to say?”
May 9th, 2007 at 3:48 pm
Schill,
As a die hard Sox fan and a concerned citizen of the nation, here is a piece of advise that I do hope you follow for your own good (and for that of the team)…
SHUT UP!
Newsflash…The Red Sox front office, the sponsors, the seat filling fans, and all the beloved nation card holders pay your salary each and every year for you to do one thing and one thing only…PITCH! Not to hear your opinions about every little trivial detail of your life or what you have to say about anyone else’s. NO ONE CARES ABOUT WHAT YOU THINK ABOUT ANYTHING! You’re a grown man who throws a ball and makes a ridiculously overpaid living for the entertainment of others. Finito!
Maybe if you spent less time writing this waste of space blog, dabbling in politics and speaking on issues which you clearly know NOTHING about, and worrying about everyone else’s performance and what substances they take to achieve their stats….you might actually start to win some more ball games. What’s your problem? You complain everytime anything you say gets taken out of context. Well here’s an idea…keep your trap shut and then you’ll NEVER get misquoted. Wow…what a concept!
Personally, you look like a pissly little toddler who isn’t getting enough attention anymore because their new kid brother was born. Beckett is having a stellar start to the season and you’ve been put on the back burner. GET USED TO IT! Rather than giving an inch of the spotlight to him or Dice-K or anyone else on the team who is actually performing, you’ve got to cause waves and get your face all over ESPN for all the wrong reasons. Way to be a team player Curtis.
This isn’t about whether you are right or wrong about what you said or your apology…I could care less. The team is my concern. All this negative attention being brought on the Sox organization can’t be good for it. It’s unwanted, unncecessary, and inappropriate. Cut the shit and play ball. If you don’t like what comes with your profession (the media, your opponents, whatever), fade off into the sunset with your notebook and give someone else the opportunity to fill your roster spot. Your’s isn’t the only live arm out there…Theo and the Sox will be just fine.
May 9th, 2007 at 3:52 pm
Hello Curt,
I am very happy to see you apologize… I had really lost all respect for you when I saw the espn article. It was not just for this response but some others that have come from you over the years.
Just put yourself in Barry’s shoes for one minute and you will see that he has been under an intense microscope even before the steroids allegations. I can only give one guarantee in life right now, and that is that Barry may have done steroids but you and I both know that many, many others did as well and I do not see their name and abilities smeared like he has been…
May 9th, 2007 at 3:52 pm
Bonds will get the record Curt, but how many world series rings does he have.
May 9th, 2007 at 3:52 pm
SP - “did” enjoy - “didn’t” enjoy
May 9th, 2007 at 3:53 pm
Barry Bonds is an a-hole. You only said what 80 percent of the people were thinking. I hope there is a devine intervention and he does not get the record. I do not want the man to die, just not get the record. You only said what many were saying around the water cooler at work, but because millions heard it, the formal apology has to be rolled out. Keep up the good work.
May 9th, 2007 at 3:54 pm
You just said what many of us want to say.
May 9th, 2007 at 3:54 pm
Curt,
Your apology was not needed for this fan.
I believe that the apology should come from Mr. Bonds, not only to the fans of baseball, but to Hank Aaron himself. What people lose sight of is that, unlike corking a bat, or scuffing up a baseball, or even spitting or greasing the ball, the use of steroids is more than cheating, or trying to enhance performance, it is illegal; it is a crime! People go to jail for possessing prescription drugs without a prescription, for using, or dispensing, prescription drugs without a prescription; these acts are criminal, and they are offensive. They are offensive to decent people who want to see everyone play by the same rules, both on the field and off. If those acts are not removed, then what will occur next? Will it be permissible to use narcotics, or some other illegal substance, to get an extra surge for the game? These days, I hear people defend Mr. Bonds, claiming that there is some type of racial bias against him; considering Hank Aaron’s race is also African-American, I find those claims offensive, and insulting to my intelligence. It retards the real and true claims of racial bias, not only in athletics, but it our society.
I respect your apology, but it was not needed for this fan.
May 9th, 2007 at 3:56 pm
Screw Barry Bonds. You should have never apologized Kurt, at least about the steroid part, but I can understand why you had given your celebrity status and with the political correctness police on the prowl. Really the only reason people are giving you shit is because the wife comment. I guarantee if you left that part out this would be already forgotten. Anyway keep your head in the game and forget about the “giant” cheater.
May 9th, 2007 at 4:01 pm
Hi Curt
I’m new to your blog and I just wanted to say that this was a great idea, both for you, your charity, and for Sox and Schilling fans!
As far as your comment about Barry Bonds….well, as one Christian to another, yah, it probably wasn’t the smartest thing that you’ve ever done. But you have apologized and hopefully you have the “in” to be able to talk to Barry himself and apologize to him personally…if that’s not possible, then you’ve done as much as you could to rectify the situation.
However true the comments you made were, Barry will have to give a FULL ACCOUNT to someone other than the millions of avid baseball fans around the world, someone a LOT more important than any of us, someone who he cannot lie to.
Thanks again for your blog and I’m looking forward to a great season this year! STAY HEALTHY!!!
May 9th, 2007 at 4:01 pm
Hmmm. Before addressing yesterday’s comments, let’s address today’s. I agree with the opinion of others that a man deserves praise for sincerely admitting he was wrong and apologizing for it. Humility is an admirable quality, and whether one or agrees or disagrees with the substance of what you said about Bonds, and whether one believes it is right or wrong to express such opinions, I think most would agree that it is admirable for one to say he believes he was wrong and apologizes for their actions.
The fact that you made your initial remarks on Gerry Callahan’s radio show, your subsequent apology above and the issue of humility in the mix all bring to mind how arrogantly Callahan mistreated one young caller about a year or two ago. I don’t often listen to talk radio, and I am fairly traditional and conservative in my political beliefs, but the likes of Callahan and Howie Carr turn me off. While I am not overly familiar with Callahan’s opinions, he seems to be like Mr. Carr in terms of arrogance and insensitivity. The specifics of the example I alluded to a couple of sentences ago: A young man called Callahan’s and Dennis’ Radio show, he sounded a bit nervous, was not very articulate, and asked the hosts their opinion on some hockey or basketball issue, I can’t remember exactly. What I do have a clear recollection of though is how the poor guy was cut off, and then mocked, with Callahan repeating the caller’s question in a sarcastic and mocking tone, with the intent of showing all his listeners how stupid and slow the caller was. It made me angry listening to it. Because I don’t like bullies, and that’s exactly what Callahan was that day - a bully, arrogant and insensitive. I doubt he would have the character to offer up an apology like you did, Curt, and I’ll also add that the caller was defenseless, and had done nothing wrong, a much easier target than Bonds was. (Although, as you stated, it wasn’t just Bonds who may have been affected by your comments yesterday.)
As for the substance of your comments about Bonds, I’m pressed for time right now, and want to send what I’ve written about, but I will opine that I think we’re all on moral grounds to generally state that use of steriods, adultery and tax cheating all immoral (though everyone has different motivations and circumstances), and I applaud anyone who speaks out on such issues. (God knows we are so far removed from our Judeo-Christian roots - and not for the better!) That said, I’m not sure that it is right to target an individual as you did, because as you say, his family especially is affected by that.
May 9th, 2007 at 4:03 pm
Despite your written apology, I am very disappointed at the lack of class you displayed with your comments. Just because you are an athlete and have peoples ear, doesn’t give you the right to publicly judge anybody. If you want to comment on baseball related issues, that is fine….but before you throw stones about cheating you should look on all your world championship rosters and be sure that nobody was doing anything that might have affected games. Baseball has some big problems right now, but singling out one person because you don’t like them is ‘bush-league’. I also find it amusing that everyone is respecting you for ‘owning up’ to your mistakes, as if this has nothing to do with the public backlash.
May 9th, 2007 at 4:03 pm
Curt,
Big Fan. I appreciate your candor and your incredible philanthropic work. I am currently listening to WEEI online and I feel that The Big Show made a good point (which is rare at times) about your Barry Bonds “mistake.” You made a comment that you wake up early to do your weekly WEEI show which I enjoy very much. However, you made a point that the format is “not the greatest.” The Big Show felt that this comment was disingenous because the format has allowed you to garner attention for your many philanthropic works such as Curt’s Pitch and 4 Pete’s Sake. I would like you to respond to this remark by the Big Show becuase I feel its valid. Keep up the good work with ALS.
Chris
May 9th, 2007 at 4:04 pm
While I am glad you apologized, I am constantly amazed that Barry takes so much of the brunt for the whole steroid debacle. There are so many baseball players (especially pitchers) that have used chemicals in the attempt to enhance their play (or shorten the time it takes to recover from injuries). If the whole truth were known, I have a feeling it would be very very bad for baseball. I wish this Balco thing had never happened. If MLB had been proactive in testing for these banned substances, a lot of this could have been avoided. Instead, they let their players use these drugs and then cried foul when Congress decided to get involved.
In the meantime, Barry Bonds has had his reputation as an athlete destroyed. I honestly feel sorry for the guy. He is taking the fall for everyone else. People say he is such a jerk and is getting what he deserves, but my attitude is that he is a human being and we should not judge him any more harshly than we want ourselves judged.
Barry is one of the greatest baseball players ever, and it wasn’t performance enhancing drugs that made him great. Whether he is a great human being is not up to me to judge.
As Buck O’Neil said, “Everybody’s looking for an edge.”
I wish people had a more generous heart when it comes to Barry.
May 9th, 2007 at 4:06 pm
C’mon, man. Stick to your verbal guns like the Dougster sticks to chicken parms! Barry is a scumbag cheater — I know, you know it, the American people know it. Plus, you and me both know that if Tito pencilled in “D. Ranch Mirabelli” more than once a week, I’d be challenging Hammerin’ Hank, too. Nonetheless, I still like the cut of your jib, C. Montague.
Dealt it,
Dougie “Dude Ranch” Mirabelli
May 9th, 2007 at 4:07 pm
Curt - I understand your apology for 2 out of the 3 comments you made yesterday. his family and his tax situation have nothing to do with you or the game.
However - I am sad that you feel compelled to apologize for the part about Bonds cheating. This *does* affect the game of baseball and you have poured your blood (literally) sweat and tears and put your heart and soul into the game.
You and every baseball player not only should feel comfortable commenting on another players action that affect the game - but in the case - EVERY player should feel obligated to speak up about steroids/cheating. You have to if you are going to protect the image of the game you have put so much into. and you should never apologize for calling out a cheater who sullied the reputation of the game.
Sorry you apologized for that part of it.
May 9th, 2007 at 4:07 pm
As I witness the continued deterioration of our society the honest comments by Curt Schilling about Bonds (rather the response to Mr. Schillings comments) underscore just how ugly the condition has become. Mr. Schilling, carefully couching his comments knowing full well that todays headline hungry media are always on the prowl, forms a few rather innocuous but accurate comments about Bonds. For the benefit of the many ignorant ones responding - this is the Bonds who has, in fact, cheated on his wife and his girl friends, is a notorious liar and bully, has admitted to taking steroids (but even lies as he reveals his lies), was accused of evading taxes and settled with the IRS (so the liar can claim he was not convicted), etc. etc. For the extra stupid respondents to Mr. Schilling, Bonds is such an embarrassment that his Godfather - the great Willie Mays - has indicated no intention to join the celebration should the overweight liar break Mr. Aaron’s record.
Mr. Schilling - you not only had every right to tell the truth about Bonds, you have an obligation to baseball to distance this great sport from those narcissists (Bonds at the front of the line) who bring disrepute to the game. The fact that the Boston manager and others have chosen to chastise you is no reflection on you or your comments but rather their selfish and short sighted view. Though baseball is but a game, it represents much more than that to many generations of Americans. Bonds is a PIG and a PUNK who may have once deserved respect (though I doubt it) but that time has long since passed.
You Mr. Schilling have brought honor to the game and your name. I am sorry you felt compelled to apologize.
May 9th, 2007 at 4:09 pm
So you can say whatever you want, then apologize and all is better? If you were a real man you would have a sit down and talk to Barry. Barry even before he allegedly took roids was a better player than you and when he retires will be a better player. You love the spotlight and the attention on yourself. Congress should have thrown the book at you for lying to them. Amazing how irate you were when someone talked about your stupid sock. JUST IMAGINE IF SOMEONE SAID SOMETHING FALSE ABOUT YOUR WIFE AND YOUR CAREER..
May 9th, 2007 at 4:09 pm
Gawd, most of the comments on this site make me nauseous. Curt Schilling is a professional athlete. He is not your buddy. This doesn’t make him a bad guy, but lord almighty — you’re all like that guy from Billy Madison who wanted to go to Red Lobster with Shooter. (Obscure movie reference for some of you — for the rest, you know what I’m talking about…)
I’m disappointed Curt. I know you hate journalists, but I think you could learn from the words of my first editor (God rest his soul) — “Never apologize. Never explain.”
May 9th, 2007 at 4:10 pm
Thank you. Thank you for the strength of your convictions that are apparent in your humility. Thank you for standing firm in the Lord. Thank you for knowing that forgiveness is what keeps us “human beans” going. Perhaps one day I will be able to thank you in person but for now please accept this beggar blogger’s thank you.
The wisdom of God is foolishness to the world. Never expect that people like the big Oy will ever understand. You have done well, dear brother. Peace to you and your family.
May 9th, 2007 at 4:10 pm
Curt,
Gary here, Pharmaceutical Salesman from MEDWAY…..Why did you appologize…..finally someone called this clown out for what he really is… Never mind Black or White issues…What ever happened to being a decent Citizen of the World…Barry Bonds is not a good person. He does little for charity, he cheats on Taxes, Wife, and the game. I am sorry but this guy’s moral cloth is full of mothballs. You had a right to your opinion.
From what i hear from family in Medfield, you and your family are decent, thoughtful, generous and kind folk… Barry Bonds has always been known as a butthole…..I applaud your remarks, you said what we all wanted to….
Read my blog- garyfowles.blogspot.com….It is the rambling of a Madman…lol….senator Schilling 2012
May 9th, 2007 at 4:12 pm
Oh and a sidebar…he admitted to using the Creme and the Clear….Still Steroids….read the Grand Jury notes!
May 9th, 2007 at 4:13 pm
Typical Curt Schilling. You have alot to say and then backtrack when it’s in your best interest, just like the congressional hearings about steroids.
Newsflash…Just because you offer an apolgy doesn’t mean that you didn’t mean what you said. To use the excuse that it may have been a bit early for you to do the interview and maybe thats why you said what you said is just plain lame.
I respect Curt Schilling as a tremendous pitcher but please don’t waffle on every topic that you like to talk about to make a splash.
May 9th, 2007 at 4:14 pm
You did the right thing by making this blog post. I’m no Barry Bonds fan believe me. Regardless, it was the right thing to do and that is why to did it.
The public knows what they think to be the truth. Sad thing is that SF allowed him to come back in the first place in my opinion.
May 9th, 2007 at 4:19 pm
The Manny Ramirez guy who leaves comments is very funny.. well done sir!!
And Curt don’t go beating yourself up… You can call it a mistake all day long… and while we may never have hard facts most of the world thinks OJ did it… and Barry juiced… doesn’t make it right… justthe way it is.. I’m sure Barry has tough skin by now… the other stuff… my we suggest a lil coffee in the morning…
your all good in our book bro…
and I only wish that was really Manny leaving those comments…
cheers
Knuckle Children
May 9th, 2007 at 4:23 pm
Curt:
I firmly believe that the majority of baseball fans throughout America (if not the world) believes and agrees with the same things you do. Saying what you did yesterday in front of the media just confirms how hard it is to be a person in the spotlight. You have to be so careful who you say what to. One wrong slip, and the entire world hears it. It takes a very big person to use their spotlight power for good, and publicly apologize like you have (without being forced into it). Kudos to you for that.
BTW - My personal favorite part was “I don’t care that he’s black, or green, or purple, or yellow, or whatever. It’s unfortunate… there’s good people and bad people. It’s unfortunate that it’s happening the way it’s happening.” I’m personally so sick of hearing that everyone is against him or they don’t believe his story because he’s a black man. We all know that has absolutely nothing to do with it.
Thank you for being the bigger man. More importantly, thank you for showing the rest of us that you are a normal human being who has faults. We’ve all said things that we probably shouldn’t have. It takes a big person to recognize that they shouldn’t have said what they did, and apologize for it.
May 9th, 2007 at 4:24 pm
Curt, I think you put into words what a lot of people were feeling–at least, what this fan was feeling. I admire you for taking the time & showing the humility to put out a public apology. While I have no problem with what you said or the sentiment that you expressed, I can appreciate that you felt the need to put this out there. Keep up the awesome pitching & the great blogging that so many enjoy!
I have a good feeling about this year–Why NOT us again??
GO SOX!
Liza
May 9th, 2007 at 4:26 pm
I empathize with you; I had the feeling listening to your comments that you were saying things that you would almost immediately regret. That said, it’s really not much of a story and shouldn’t be getting the airtime it has gotten. Needless to say, you’ll likely be a nominee for Mike and Mike’s “Just Shut Up” award next week!
You’ve apologized and now it’s time to put it behind you and move on. You’ve got bigger fish to fry, and the best way to handle this is to keep pitching as well as you are. Best to you, Curt.
May 9th, 2007 at 4:27 pm
Curt,
Stay out of the political arena in Massachusetts.
Let me be completely honest with you Mr. Schilling.
If I’m not mistaken you appeared on The Today Show with Matt Lauer the morning after the World Series victory in 2004. You closed your remarks by ENDORSING GEORGE BUSH. Personally, you put a real damper on the festivities in my household. Learn to zip it and just stick to baseball. Oh and your steroid testimony before Congress a few years ago was also self-serving and laughable.
Canseco is ABSOLUTELY 100 PERCENT CORRECT in his assessment of you. ANYBODY who would EVER vote for you IS OUT OF THEIR MIND. All your opinionated grandstanding about every issue that crosses your path is transparently intended to shape a future political bid in Massachusetts. I don’t think Washington D.C. or The Statehouse in Boston really needs somebody that has a mindset which has been entirely shaped by the “cult of the athlete”. You exude an arrogance that is offensive and condescending. Stick to pitching. One half-wit named Jim Bunning in The U.S. Senate is enough. One named Curt Schilling would be unnecessary. Not that I DON’T think you wouldn’t have a constituency in Massachusetts.
There are plenty of crypto-racists and semi-fascists in America that would just LOVE YOU in office. I’m NOT one of them. Want to have a discussion about the philosophy of Leo Strauss and his influence upon the Bush Administration ??? Probably not, eh Curt ?
Just win games for the team I have rooted for since childhood. YOU WILL NEVER WIN MY VOTE for anything !!!
May 9th, 2007 at 4:28 pm
To Kurt
I respect your first opinion I feel you were honest and genuine. I feel that you are taking one for the team today by recanting your statement. I believe you still feel the same way as you did yesterday and you don’t mind the heat that comes down on you for your outspoken ways. But you are putting your team and the game first by amending your first comment today…. good for you goodluck in the future
ps keep talking
May 9th, 2007 at 4:29 pm
Kurt, I have read what the others here have said and I’m afraid that most are a little too myopic to see the real problem here. As a professional baseball player, you were way out of line by making public accusations about another ballplayer whom I doubt you know personally. Fact: there is no public record of Barry ever admitting to taking steroids, nor has there been any proof given to any grand jury, court or MLB official to back-up what you said. Do people today care that the Babe was a raging alcoholic? No they don’t and we all still admire what he accomplished in his career. Take a page from David Ortiz and give someone the benefit of the doubt when you don’t know the facts. I’ll admit that I disliked the guy for many years because of his attitude, but that doesn’t mean he must have done steroids! As Papi said, how can steroids make him hit the ball so consistantly, even all these years after the haters started the controversy? Ask any of the guys who make a living hitting that little round thing you have mastered throwing and they’ll tell you that someone hopped up on the juice isn’t going to be able to concentrate so well or they would have the K’s to prove it! We get so involved in the personal lives of athletes today that we apply how we feel about their personal lives to the athlete on the field or court. Respect the abilities of those who have a gift and stop trying to rbing them down to make yourself feel better. Stay focused on what really matters - kicking the Yanks @ss!
May 9th, 2007 at 4:30 pm
Baseball is a cheaters game. It is full of cheaters, always has been and always will be. HOF pitcher Gaylord Perry openly admitted to cheating EVERY TIME he pitched. The only reason he is/was not burned at the stake was because he is no threat to one of baseball’s most coveted records. Singling out one person in this tainted game is pathetic and rediculous. I hope Barry Bonds blows this record away…and with any luck, it will happen in Fenway.
May 9th, 2007 at 4:32 pm
To Curt Schilling and to Jamelle at ESPN (and to every other baseball apologist for hallowed records):
Personally,I can’t stand Bad Barry either any more than I do boiled asparagus or Brussells Sprouts–but that’s besides the point.
The core issue underlying the national villification of Barry Bonds is CHEATING–and not just when it comes in the generallly recognized forms of steroids or HGH. In baseball,cheating comes in many,many “respectable” forms. You know: pitchers scuffing baseballs,or spitting on them which has the effect of artificially altering RECORDS!!! There are many other ways players cut corners,but since it would take more time and space to delve into them than I’m prepared to devote allow me focus on the one I just mentioned:
Please take an unbiased moment and THINK about it:
Consider all the millions of pitches that have been thrown in the past hundred years.How many career strikeout totals are artificially HIGH and how many career ERA’s are artificially LOW due to this time-honored,cutesy habit pitchers have been allowed to get away with (one of them–Gaylord Perry even bragging about it from his pedestal in Cooperstown)?? How many lifetime hit totals have been depressed–not to mention final scores altered and tainted–by this insidious form of CHEATING??
But because moistening baseballs and scuffing them isn’t the sexy,headline grabbing issue that Performance Enhancing Drugs are,the former doesn’t get the attention that it really deserves.
We could go in a number of directions with this issue. For one thing,your collective accusations about steroid users and the effect PED’s have on baseball stats really don’t go far enough. That’s because if a hitter is taking ANY artificial substance which strengthens his muscles it will enable him to start his swing sooner and get the bat through the strike zone more quickly. With that in mind,steroids and human growth hormone would affect EVERY KIND OF HIT that a batter can get–namely singles, doubles and triples as well–not just homeruns.
Also, since steroids testing began, PITCHERS have been the most frequent culprits–a fact that makes alot of sense–(particularly for relievers) when you consider the damage that the pitching motion causes to muscles in the shoulder,upper back and neck. So you’re really working with two unknowns. If a pitcher can throw harder or not break down as much and then recover more quickly using steroids than he would otherwise,then–at the very least–his strikeout totals would be tainted too.And if (as the late Ken Caminiti contended–and I believe to be true–) 80 per cent of ALL baseball players are on one form of PED or another,then the cheating scandal is far more pervasive than sportswriters have been willing to acknowledge,and their narrow focus on HITTER’s use of PED’s –particularly that of Barry Bonds’ (while giving far less play to the same indescretions by pitchers) is utterly unjustified.
In the end, I would say that if the baseball cognoscenti were soooooooooo concerned with preserving the sanctity of baseball’s career records they would NEVER have looked the other way FOR YEARS when juiced baseballs were flying out of stadiums like Saturn Five rockets from launching pads at Cape Canaveral.So the chickens have come home to roost.
Bud Selig YOU spat in the soup–especially when you (after being reminded by Maxine Waters that you were under oath) SWORE you had no prior knowledge of the steroid issue in the sport whose records and adjudication you’ve been entrusted with.
Now because of your shortsightedness and greed,EVERYONE is forced to drink it.
DEAL WITH IT…
And Curt,as for your belated apology,spare me the pietetics.Chances are we would never have heard those words from you if the outcry against candor weren’t so widespread. Stick with what you do best–getting hitters out using a rare combination of brains,skill and meticulous preparation. And see YOU in Cooperstown one day!
Clifford\ABM
Sta Monica
May 9th, 2007 at 4:33 pm
maybe you should keep your big mouth shut and leave the comments to the experts. Just play your game and retire….can’t you just keep the comments to yourself for one more season?
May 9th, 2007 at 4:33 pm
It was wrong to say what was said and express the opinion. However if there is truth to anything that was said than release it somehow. I would not want a guy celebrated and find out later that it was all cheating or get eevrything clear so everyone can celebrate what is called the major record.
May 9th, 2007 at 4:33 pm
Nice.
Now you can apologize to fans and MLB for lacking the balls to speak up during the ‘05 Congressional investigation.
May 9th, 2007 at 4:35 pm
You only verbalized what most baseball fans believe; no one can crucify you for that. While I am not a BoSox fan, I don’t blame you for honestly voicing what so many believe, including the spineless press. Barry Bonds is a lair and cheat. As far as Clemens, if Charles Manson could throw like him, Steinbrenner would have him on a work release rogram in pinstripes. I don’t liek the deal, but look forward to see another solid starter in NYC; albeit too late or the Yankees this year.
May 9th, 2007 at 4:35 pm
Curt,
Will someone please stand up and stand up for what they say. It may have been early in the AM but the game needs candor and that’s exactly what you gave it. I would guess that Terry or Larry happened by or called you and gave you a little, “Now Curt…” Somebody somewhere stand up and call out Barry Bonds for the fraud that he is. If he wasn’t HGHing, he’d be like the rest of us geezers drinking beer and tossing peanuts, rather than wrapping longballs into SanFran Bay. He was a great athlete…now he is just a freak of the un-natural kind and you had the words to put him where he belongs and you took the 5th on this. Don’t CAVE!!!
May 9th, 2007 at 4:37 pm
I cant figure out why theres such an uproar over your Bonds comments…. would we ever expect anything less from you?
May 9th, 2007 at 4:39 pm
In life we all lie or cheat in someway, and it is hard to judge other people. Although you were right about your statements, you are also right that you shouldn’t defame or disparage anyone in that instance. Apologies are always good but always hard. Bonds will receive his judgment in life much like everyone else, and examples like these go far beyond baseball. I appreciate that you can make a good example out of something bad. It’s always best to be the bigger person and walk away, and try as best as we can to act like the perfect example that the Lord gave us a couple of thousand years ago. You are still a good man in my book….
May 9th, 2007 at 4:40 pm
I vote for the intentional walk of BB at bat.
Onward.
May 9th, 2007 at 4:43 pm
Apology accepted ‘Imus’.
May 9th, 2007 at 4:43 pm
I don’t read this blog. I heard your comments on an ESPN podcast. The media blew it up. Your tone was one of sadness in my opinion which is everybodies in the country except in SF. I am a Yankee fan and really do not like you (naturally because I did not even think about it until you went to Boston) but I respect you. However, I totally agreed with your comments about Bonds and am disappointed that you felt the need to apologize. I don’t follow the sports talk to speak with absolute confidence but I believe that everything you said was fact, not opinion. Stick to your guns and get the media out of your pocket.
May 9th, 2007 at 4:44 pm
i am a phillies fan. thank you for the memories,curt. you were right the first time about barry bonds. the man is a cheater. he does not deserve the record. henry aaron did it the right way and he went through hell chasing ruth’s record. barry bonds is an arrogant piece of garbage, regardless of his race. you should not have backed down from your comments…………
May 9th, 2007 at 4:46 pm
No need to apologize Curt! Speak your mind, show your feelings! I as well, would not pitch to Barry Bonds and if I did, it would be high heat against his head and put him out of baseball for good! He is an absolute disgrace to baseball and the legends before him. The only HOF he should ever be in is the HOF for cheats and liars! He should not be given the oppurtunity to break the HR record, someone who didn’t cheat, lie and illegally obtain the record and is in good standing with MLB and it’s fans. That is NOT Barry Bonds! Put a pitch upside his head for me!
May 9th, 2007 at 4:46 pm
Curt,
I find it pathetic how everyone seems to support you for admitting you are sorry. The question is are you really sorry? You seem like an intelligent man and say some pretty off the wall things. However, was it your manager telling you to “shut up” or the fact that you are getting a lot of negative backlash from the media that caused you to all of a sudden have a change of heart.
I don’t find your retraction sincere at all. Frankly, I find it weak. I am sure you are just trying to save face to the public, media and Barry Bonds. People don’t just say things as passionately as you said them without having the true feelings of what they are saying. You always seems to voice your opinion on topics, but never seem to have a lot of facts. Save the propaganda for politics, because I am sure that is where you are headed after you get out of baseball. You fit the mold perfectly.
I hope Barry Bonds just lets his bat talk for him in June when he jacks out a few against you!
Remember it is a long season folks!!!!
May 9th, 2007 at 4:47 pm
This appology means nothing.
Why is it that you have to speak your mind about everything and anything? You spoke up about Roger Clemens for what reason? Is it Jealousy? You spoke up about Barry Bonds and for what reason? Does it matter? Who are you to always voice your opinion like your the last stop.
“hey listen everybody, stop everything your doing because the great Curt Schilling has spoken”
I know your a deeply religious man, but your not god. Your not the final say, and your not anybody to put in your 2 sense about every issue that arises. It would be better if you kept it to yourself.
You dont get paid to run your mouth. You get paid to pitch. Does Barry Bonds’s un-proved allegations affect you and your pitching? Does Roger Clemens and his decision affect you? NO.
You didnt like it when you were put in the public eye for the bloody sock “scandal”. So was this some type of retaliation?
I think EEI should stop letting you go on their program. It must be some kind of rush for you because every time your on that show you sound like some inconsiderate, cocky, and rude person. It sounds to a lot of people that you just like to hear yourself talk. But Curt, ill let you in on a secret…a lot of people dont.
Keep in mind Curt; your not paid to talk. Your job is to go out once every 5 days and pitch. THATS IT. Keep to doing what you do best and what your paid for
May 9th, 2007 at 4:48 pm
It took courage to say what you did yesterday, and though I understand the need for it I’m a little disappointed that you apologized today. It’s about time someone in baseball stood up for the integrity of the game and showed some honor, and it’s a shame that you’re being thrown under the bus by the media for having the integrity to point out what anyone who isn’t wearing blinders can easily see for themselves.
May 9th, 2007 at 4:49 pm
Live and learn. Hope the issue dies a quick death. I’m glad Ortiz isn’t all over the news because he said he didn’t know if things they innocently used in the DR contained steroids. I’m wondering if I may have done the same thing thinking I was doing something good for my body when I was younger. Anyway, Bonds is a jerk. Regardless of his color, he is not a hero type. Ali was the kind of guy that could be what he was and get away with it and we all love him for it. Bonds is just a jerk, and obviously not a team player. The racial issue is sickening. The last time I looked Hank Aaron was the same color, and its his record about to be broken. Hank Aaron overcame much, much more than Bonds will ever or could ever overcome. He did it in a different era and handled it with grace, dignity, and an incredible amount of modesty. I feel bad that so many misunderstand why he just doesn’t want to answer all the questions that will be directed to him when Bonds passes him.
If it were Ken Griffey Jr. right now he’d be a hero. This is not racial, Bonds is just a jerk and not the kind of guy we want to hold the most coveted record in sports.
If I were a celebrity I’d get on the radio and speak my mind too.
May 9th, 2007 at 4:49 pm
Curt Curt Curt,
It was a breath of frsh air to see a pro player saying what you said on Tuesday. Now to see you backtracking is disappointing. As best I can remember, you didn’t offer an opinion on Bonds in your Tuesday interview…rather you stated facts. I’m unsure what your apologizing for….for stating facts?
If you had offered up an opinion..like he should be banned now before he breaks the record…maybe..but to simply state the facts already out there isn’t worthy of an apology.
It’s sad to see you cave in to what is perceived as pressure from above in retracting your statement. Bonds is a cheat…the only one that needs to apologize is Bonds himself…and Selig for allowing it and then forcing you to apologize for reminding us of the facts.
Peace and God Bless!!
May 9th, 2007 at 4:50 pm
P.S.
I believe something like this just recently happened. Oh, yes, The Don Imus incident.
Although your words werent nearly as strong as those used my Imus, they were still hurtful to people.
Sometime appologies do not, and cannot retract the hurtful things you say or do.
Think before you go on the radio next Curt, your better than that.
May 9th, 2007 at 4:50 pm
Barry Bonds is a cheater in baseball, and you have to most annoying mouth in baseball. I guess you get off on the publicity, but every time I hear the name Curt Shilling I want to vomit. Never address the media ever again. That way you won’t make anymore mistakes, and I’ll be able to keep my food down. That’s a plan that will work for everyone.
May 9th, 2007 at 4:53 pm
hey curt,
like said in the first post it does take a bigger man to admit that he has made a mistake. You did exactly that. i think that it is really good that you made this public apology because it kind of cools off everyone who was talking shit about you after yesterday. I do have to admit that, while i agreed with some of what you said, i was still shocked, disappointed, and disgusted why I turned on the T.V. yesterday and heard the comments. But I was even more shocked when I turned on that four-letter-channel today and saw at the bottom of the screen “breaking news: Schilling apologizes for Bonds comments”. I automatically turned on my laptop and went to this site. It was comforting to see this post. And I thank you very much for it.
May 9th, 2007 at 4:53 pm
Curt
I was like many other people disappointed with the comment made, by such a star baseball player like yourself. Your apology is great, and is nothing less of what I’d expect from someone like yourself.
I have always admired you and what you did. After a mistake if it’s in a baseball game, or in public you will always try to fix it which means a lot to baseball fans and I’m sure that it also means a lot to the organization.
We all make mistakes, but it’s how you fix your mistakes that makes you a great person.
I consider you a great person because of this apology and many other things you have done for the organizations you have played for.
- Rob
May 9th, 2007 at 4:54 pm
Curt,
this is the downside of what you are doing, and we all know you love the mike and attention, which btw is very fine with me. but when you shove one of those mint laced cleats in you mouth, you are hurting the team and guys in the evil empire are loving it. but who wants or needs the distractions? there’s a far bigger goal, and prize out there, and if you continue to become an issue like this (regardless of the truth of the issue), i and others are going to ask — does care about himself or the team? i know your answer, but these public acts of foolery are not productive.
Pitch more, blog/WEEI less.
Go Sox
May 9th, 2007 at 4:54 pm
As I posted in the “bloody sock” thread …
“Just pitch, will ya? It’s getting old.”
May 9th, 2007 at 4:58 pm
Don’t apoligize….many purists hold 755 in high esteem just like we held 61. Barry Bonds has no place in baseball. This has nothing to do with his race, but rather because we all know he lied and cheated.
May 9th, 2007 at 5:00 pm
What ever happened to sticking to your words or if you are REALLY sorry apologizing in the same format you made the mistake in? These blog apologies are just a way for people to save face when the media makes them look bad. Step up to the plate and verbally tell him you are sorry, don’t just write it in cyberspace and expect that it is done with. My guess is Barry doesn’t care what you have to say, but if he did this “blog apology” would probably make he even more mad. I understand I don’t look good by writing this response in a blog, but I can’t really call you on the phone. You can call him or at least go on your little show and man up.
May 9th, 2007 at 5:00 pm
Curt,
No apology necessary! You’re entitled to your opinions and you have a stake in the matter that’s bigger than any of us fans. Cheaters like Bonds and Palmiero and others are the problem. If the league and the managers and other players would focus on the problem (Bonds) and not the people who point out the problem (Curt Schilling), then we could go back to the fun part of the game.
Play ball!
Heyoka Jack from Cohasset
May 9th, 2007 at 5:00 pm
Bonds. Is any one else better? I’m white and he’s great. What you said was low life. But, credit you for covering yourself with an apology.
May 9th, 2007 at 5:01 pm
curt, i also respect your apology and totally agree with your take on your reasons for your creating this blog heres my point not every one can just enjoy agood thing they have to create contraversy on your blog and on weei i know they donate to your charity but only thru your kindness im not saying thier the evil empire but dont think for aminute they give a damn about your slip of the lip to the contrary they love the national publicty, screw thier interviews go redsox pats cape cod
May 9th, 2007 at 5:03 pm
curt you are a hypocrite and should have opened your mouth to congress if you wanted to be heard on this subject. you have indeed humanized yourself with the apology that you have given regardless of your true feelings. and all your fans respecting you for “standing up and being a man” for apologizing for something you shouldn’t have said in the first place, eats at me!!!
you are using your celeb to gain the spotlight that you so desperately crave. i would expect comments like this one from a young superstar, but you have been in the ring, you know excatly how to handle yourself. if you want to be my hero, my kids hero, show some class and stand by your statements. just know it doesn’t make you any more of a man to apologize for your remarks. isn’t that what real men are suppost to do? just like chris rock put it, “just because you stay out of jail, doesn’t mean your a good person. you’re suppost to stay our of jail!!!!!!”
tigers fan for life.
May 9th, 2007 at 5:06 pm
See, Barry Bonds is a person that to me wasn’t worth even saying something about. Where you did, then I agree with the apology. ONLY, cause he is married with kids and has a family. THATS IT! The man is a worm, a coward, and a phony! It isn’t his family’s fault he has taken the route he has taken…..Your a good man Curt!
May 9th, 2007 at 5:06 pm
Even though I agree with the things you did say in the interview, I admire you for going out and apologizing to Bonds about the whole issue. It was the right thing to do, and the smart thing to do as well. But in another sense, I was also glad to hear somebody in baseball say what you said in your interview as well. The majority of the people in baseball think Bonds cheated just as you do; after all, he did admit to “unknowingly” using “the cream” in 2003…and we all know what’s in “the cream”. I too just as you don’t care if a guy is pink with purple polka dots, if your a cheater, your a cheater. Bonds has been a cantankerous, unsociable, spiteful, racist player since his younger days, and it’s time people like that get the blackballing they deserve. I’m so sick of the media and other guys standing up for a guy who admitted to cheating, and who seemingly hates everybody. Guys like you keep America watching baseball, keep up the good work!
May 9th, 2007 at 5:08 pm
you said you affected other peoples lives by your comments?? Whose lives could you possibly affect by anything you say? Look it up…Hoisted by your own petard….
May 9th, 2007 at 5:10 pm
Although I agreed wholeheartedly with what you said yesterday, I applaud you following your conscience today.
I think the media is making way too big a deal about your comments, though. If Bonds is offended, let him start a blog.
May 9th, 2007 at 5:10 pm
Hi Curt,
Everyone knows that Barry Bonds is a cheater. You’d have to live in San Fransisco to think otherwise. I am a fan of the game and respect the game and the honest players who play this wonderful sport.
Regardless of where Barry is playing during his potential record breaking, highly coveted, and most sacret sporting record of all time, every big league pitcher that Barry faces can dictate Barry’s future. Lets face it, Barry is getting old, has no shame, and does not respect too much and only cares about himself. Not many people like him either. His kids probably cannot stand him!
Here is what I would do if I was in control of who and what type of pitch I throw to opposing hitters. I would intentionally walk Barry and force him to retire with 745 home runs. I would not give him anything to swing at. It will be a shame if Barry breaks the home run record. So to recap, and by the way, you are a stand up guy who has a lot of entegrity and you are well liked especially in New England and there was no need to apoligize to Barry, intentionally walk the JERK!
**************Barry Bonds sucks more than the Yankees!***********
*******************INTENTIONALLY WALK BARRY*****************
May 9th, 2007 at 5:10 pm
Y’know, you wouldn’t have to backtrack over everything you say if you’d shut the hell up once and a while.
May 9th, 2007 at 5:13 pm
The only problem with being open and honest is being vulnerable to your stream of consciousness. If you were to speak like you did at our dining room table, you would have clarified it, possibly retracted, or embellished, and then the topic would go away. When you speak at the WEEI kitchen table, the words are dissected and amplified, and amplified again. It must be frustrating at times to live under a microscope. I give you a lot of credit for speaking your mind (and your stream of conscious). Don’t ever parse your words, you are naturally eloquent. As for Barry Bonds… most of his talent is God Given. I wonder if the gains from enhancements aren’t overrated?
May 9th, 2007 at 5:13 pm
I couldn’t agree more on Bonds. Its just…unfortunate that a man like that is taking over the records.
its a stain on the legacy of baseball, not that the legacy is spotless.
as far as your comments, I’m glad you appologized for any misstatements you made, even if I agree.
May 9th, 2007 at 5:16 pm
As a California native and Giants fan through and through, I can tell you that we all have our doubts about Bonds and alleged steroid use. Who am I kidding? The man probably used steroids. But like Ortiz said, that doesn’t make you a better hitter, per se.
Stepping back from the steroids issue, I commend you for (1) humbly apologizing for your comments and (2) referencing our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He set the bar the highest it can be, so don’t get down on yourself for being fallible; we ALL are. You showed your maturity and your professionalism by your public apology. Thanks much; and God bless!
May 9th, 2007 at 5:16 pm
oh yeah…congrats to tito for winning his 300th game as red sox manager last night. and congrats to beckett for becoming 7-0
May 9th, 2007 at 5:17 pm
I’m glad you spoke out about him, what you said was factual, whether he admits it or not. We all can’t go around and actually believe what people tell us is truthful.
There’s nothing I can’t stand more than liars and cheaters.
I’m glad you apologized rather quickly, as the media blows everything out of proportion and can be a distraction to the team.
Don’t worry about what you said and focus on the most important things right now: your family and your job.
Keep up the awesome pitching! Don’t know how you can still do it, I feel like I’m falling apart and I’m only in college ball!
May 9th, 2007 at 5:18 pm
In my opinion you are the biggest hypocrite ever and should learn to shut your mouth and do what you get paid to do. You call out sportswriter to “get there facts right” last week and then you go out and say something that has no factual basis behind it…..
PS Yankees will own the sox this year
Your not half the pitcher roger clemens is…..
May 9th, 2007 at 5:18 pm
I am not surprised that you would make the comments that you made yesterday, and then come back today and apologize. I am sure that you have never done anything wrong in your life, and that gives you the right to throw anyone under the bus. Obviously, you didn’t think about Barry Bonds family, friends, or anyone that cares about the man.
Lets just say that everyone associated with Major League Baseball, including the individual teams, owners, and their players knew who was taking steroids, and decided that they would not say a word about it. Now Curt, do you really believe that you would say something to a high profile player, that was on your team, and they were taking steroids? Very doubtful.
Hank Aaron may or may not show up when Barry breaks his record. As a black man, it would be a slap in the face for him. I understand that he traveled to Los Angeles on Jackie Robinson day, and that he is choosing not to be in attendance when Barry breaks the record.
You said that it does not matter what color of his skin, and most white people claim to have a lot of black friends, after that have used the “N” word to describe them while on the radio- - - Don Imus.
He made a mistake, he admitted to it. I know you have the perfect life, and everyone around you are as pure as the falling snow. Just remember, sometimes when you keep your mouth closed, people will not realize how much of a undercover racist you really are.
Just play baseball, and leave the judging part up to God.
GT
May 9th, 2007 at 5:19 pm
Mr Schilling,
I appreciate that you voice your opinions publicly on many issues, and I respect the fact that you are one of the best pitchers over the last 10 years. It’s my opinion that members of the media often take advantage of you’re willingness to be honest and candid. I don’t think you need to apologize for anything, in fact in this day and age there is way to much apologizing going on for comments that are usually the truth. It’s obvious that when a comment is made on any subject, someone will disagree or question it. That is the purpose of debate, blogs, commentaries and opinions in general. Pertaining the sports world, I am personally sick and tired of every single comment on anything remotely controversial being blown up into a huge story and debate. If I was in your position I would tell all the critics and so called experts to go to hell (which you probably do anyways). I also thought your response to “sockgate” as i call it was tremendous. I was hoping some hack would take you up on that bet and help out ALS with a cool mil. Keep it real Schill.
May 9th, 2007 at 5:19 pm
Frankly I don’t see what you are apologizing for. You were asking your opinion on an issue and you gave your honest opinion on it, if Bonds or anybody else is offended by it, well then that’s thier problem. We enjoy a great little thing called “Free Speach”, or at least we are supposed to. In today’s society we are too often robbed of this right because of the fear of “offending” somebody. I think you should erase this apology, as you have nothing to apologize for.
May 9th, 2007 at 5:19 pm
Curt,
A pattern seems to be developing here…you say something outlandish, then appologize, claiming to be “misconstrued” and “victimized.” Let it be known that race has nothing to do with the public’s view of Barry Bonds, because just as no one believes Barry is clean, no one believes that you honestly have been “victimized” by the media. I mean that 3 sentence segment you said about Barry Bonds is kinda hard to “miscontrue,” you either said it or you didnt. And it was pretty cold, and I’m sure you being in the A.L. east and Barry being all the way out in the N.L. west had something to do with it.
There is something to be said for standing up for beliefs, but more to be said for being a man. As a man, you don’t talk about Barry cheating on his wife, his taxes, or doing steroids (you were never his teammate, unless he was shooting up in the clubhouse at the all-star game). Any place I’ve ever been to has a name for someone like that, and trust me, “Man” is not it.
The only thing worse than an ultra politcal athlete (muhammed Ali) or an anti-political athlete (Michael Jordan), is a half-assed political athlete (you). Please, for the sake of baseball fans everywhere, just pitch. Dont worry about spreading your two cents in about Barry, Clemens, the war in Iraq, Dice-K, Bud Selig, or anything else, because honestly, no one takes you seriously. It’s more comical than impressive… maybe focus on winning the division first, then move on to expository writing classes in the clubhouse…
-Dave from NJ
p.s. also, cut your hair back to how it was in Philly…your hair is too thin at your age to be growing it out of the back of your hat like some college pitcher from Ole’ Miss…
May 9th, 2007 at 5:20 pm
Funny how you rip on sportswriters for their inability to get things right, then you go out and rip on Bonds, making sure the truth doesn’t get in the way of a good quote.
Just about everything you said was factually inaccurate, after all these years of having a holier-than-thou attitude over the media. Looks like their job is tougher than you might realize. You’ve proven incapable of doing it with the same accuracy you expect of them.
May 9th, 2007 at 5:20 pm
A bum. Someone who thinks he is more important than he is.
Big head.
Yep.
Mr. Schilling
May 9th, 2007 at 5:23 pm
I’m disappointed in Curts appology. I think he owed no one an apology and that freedom of speech is his right. the media is spinning him into the bad guy here when he isn’t. Bonds is! This isn’t about black or white. It’s about a record, arecord that should have an sterisk by it due to the fact that wether he admits it or not, Bonds took steroids and cheated. Period!
May 9th, 2007 at 5:26 pm
I for one like the idea of making comments about people based on the overwhelming circumstantial evidence available. BB’s head is the size of a Jubilee watermelon and everyone “speculates” he did roids. That like saying there is a possibility Big Papi likes an occasional midnight snack.
Otis
PS - Any chance of helping “38pitches per inning” Matsuzaka throw a strike?
May 9th, 2007 at 5:29 pm
You are human. But you should have known better. There was no proof to anything you said. Sometimes we let our emotions get in front of our clear thoughts. Even our President knows that. (I think). Just play ball. Your the best at what you do, and so is Barry.
May 9th, 2007 at 5:29 pm
Curt your an idiot. Mind your own business and worry about your own team. I hope you will talk to Barry and apologize to him and not all of the fans.
May 9th, 2007 at 5:30 pm
I can believe this. Curt said what almost everyone else wanted to say. The problem is that he is a public figure and it is frowned upon when he speaks this way. What Barry Bonds has done to the game of baseball is a disgrace. Although the magititude of the offense is night and day - this so closely mirrors OJ Simpson. They both were not found “Guilty” but are both 100% guilty. Barry Bonds abuses steroids. Nobody’s head and body change like that. There have been more stories out there about his steroid abuse. What is “everyone” lying. It is a fact he has abused steroids. I don’t need proof in a court of law or have him admit it. I am sick of hearing of what he has and hasn’t admitted to. How many people everyday get accused of something wrongful and deny it? Of course Barry is going to deny it. I am glad Curt spoke up and “vented” about Barry and how has abused the game and the people in his like. Everyone tells Curt to keep his mouth shut. Well, MLB is keeping their mouth shut and that is why Barry Bonds is getting away with “Baseball Murder” and is about to break the most storied record in baseball. More people better start speaking up and speaking up fast. There are so many kids out there today that have been exposed to steroids and whose lives will be ruined becuase public figures like Bonds use something that is so harmful to the body. Their lives will all be ruined.
May 9th, 2007 at 5:31 pm
Curt,
You were right in the first place. Most thinking people who love baseball agreed with your original thoughts. You were very clear.
Big Moe
May 9th, 2007 at 5:31 pm
Curt,
There was only one way to get away from this and move on and this apology is that first step. I admit as well I was somewhat shocked to hear what you had said about Bonds, it’s always disturbing to hear your favorite players talked about in the media negatively as you were after saying what you said, especially by Conseco who spoke on the radio about what you said which I’m sure you’ve heard by now. Personally I think me and other baseball fans as well are just sick of hearing about all of this steroid issue. I must admit I agree more with what Ortiz said about Bonds, but still I am tired of hearing about steroids all the time, it is seriously taking away from the game, which is exactly why no one seems to care that Bonds is going to break the record soon, and I even live in the bay area and can’t seem to find anyone who is showing any sign of excitement over the matter. This apology, like others have said on here, was well written and sincere, and I think any baseball fan, Sox fan or not, should be able to agree that you have made the right move in issuing this apology. Of course we all wish this would have never happened, but the fact is it did, and you yourself said that you can not go back on your words, which is something we all learn eventually to be very true, and it’s not like this doesn’t happen to everyone at some point in time, saying something they wish they didn’t say, only in this case it was just said at the wrong time in the wrong place, not to say that I think it should have ever been said at all. Look what just happened with Alec Bladwin, not to say I’m comparing what he said to what you said, but it’s the same issue of saying things one wished they wouldn’t have said and having the media completely expose it. As a Sox fan, as a baseball fan, and as a human being, I thank you for posting this apology.
Now enough of this media frenzy bull! Lets get back to some baseball! You’ve got a lot of work to do if your gonna be catchin up to Josh anytime soon!
Go Sox!
May 9th, 2007 at 5:32 pm
Curt, might I suggest teammates distressed by your remarks simply put a towel over their heads?
As for Bonds, when he chose to reach for a pill instead of reaching for the stars he cast his lot.
Extorting stadiums, overcharging for a watered down product, and chemically breaking records is a shortsighted but expedient way to market baseball out of existence.
May 9th, 2007 at 5:33 pm
Hey Curt, last time I checked, God incarnated on Earth before and after Christ. There were other faiths that existed, too. I don’t mind you mentioning God but please try to act like Jesus would instead of ripping people and saying whatever’s on your mind.
I commend you on your apology since you should have stuck with Bonds the player not the person.
May 9th, 2007 at 5:33 pm
Not to change topics…but , at some point this season, could you walk us through what a pitcher does on his off-days?
May 9th, 2007 at 5:34 pm
Curt, you started out strong and then faded like the Sox in ‘78. Although I do not agree with the blowhard on WEEI (The Fat Bastard on the air from 2-6 Monday through Friday), I do wonder if I will always hear your true opinions in the future. I fear that you will not give your opinion in the future when asked about critical issues.
The aforementioned Fat Bastard thinks that you are retracting your whole statement. That is clearly not what you meant. Rob Bradford stated it best. In summary, he said that you were not indicating that you did not have those exact feelings, only that you regretted actually saying it. In fact, I believe that if you had just stopped at the point where you called him a cheater, there would be no retraction necessary.
A side note on the Fat Bastard…if he did not have the qualified guests on his show such as Rob Bradford and others, he would be a janitor at Lynn Classical.
When I heard your comments on the D and C show, I was relieved that someone actually had the guts to come out and call Barry Bonds what he is. If you are going to retract your statement, let me take your place and say that he has put a black mark on perhaps the greatest game ever invented. He is a cheater and will never be considered the true home run king. It is unfortunate that I love Baseball as much as I do. If I didn’t, I would never watch another game. I think it’s appalling that Major League Baseball has allowed this to go on as long as they have. There was probably a lot of pressure from the league office to issue your apology because they put themselves in this position and refused to do anything about it over the past 10 to 15 years.
Nice job
May 9th, 2007 at 5:34 pm
You are a blow hard Curt. Another part of wisdom is learning when to keep your mouth (and pen) closed. I am a fan but I do wish you would keep your mouth shut sometimes.
May 9th, 2007 at 5:36 pm
I think you were right in making the first statement, once a cheat always a cheat.
May 9th, 2007 at 5:37 pm
Thanks for showing integrity Curt, that’s a quality that not too many ballplayers have in this day and age.
May 9th, 2007 at 5:37 pm
Do you have any comments about whether or not your stance on Bonds has been causing friction with your teammates, specifically David Ortiz?
May 9th, 2007 at 5:37 pm
Curt -
I am going to take off my rose colored glasses for a moment to say, wow, you know, that really was not cool what you said about Barry. It’s not like I love the guy or anything, but people should be fair to him and let things play out at their own pace. If he’s guilty, it will come out someday, the truth has a funny way of finding it’s way out of the dark holes people stick it in. It’s just not your place to say something that may not be true, or to be that judgmental in the national media.
But I also don’t think what you did was really that bad, and think you need to stop beating yourself up over it. The only thing you are guilty of is saying things in the wrong place, and it’s time to get over it.
I would like for you to consider an alternative interpretation of events for a moment. What you said about Barry was wrong in the sense that you made some claims that are not necessarily true. In print media and on the radio, that is what reporters do every day. It is henious, it detracts from the perceived value of standards in journalism, and it is harmful to the people involved. It is the thing you accuse others of, and there is no joy in being caught in that position.
But the same standards do not exist on the Internet - everyone knows you cannot trust a word a blogger says ever. The further you get into the world of blogging, the more you are going to find that explosive, reactionary, hyper-judgmental, completely false statements are the stock and trade of some authors. If you had said the same things in your blog it would have been called a flame war, a huge argument would have broken out, and the worst that would have happened is people who can’t take it would have left and people who love flame wars would have started hanging out to see the latest zinger. The standards of conduct are that different, and it really does make the media look good by comparison.
Here’s a definition:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flame_war
In that sense, all you are guilty of is choosing the wrong medium to make such claims, judged by the standards and typical behavior of online communities. Newspapers sometimes get in trouble when they completely make up stories and try to pass them off as news. Bloggers have no such issues and it IS okay to say that kind of thing here. The Internet is a wild place and the instantaneous nature of communications allow us to slip every once in a while and say things that are complete BS. It allows us to say nothing but BS for extended periods of time, and there is nothing anyone can do about it.
Just keep whatever assertions you want to make about someone on the Internet. We all want to hear you talk about Hairston, Roberts, Palmeiro, Sheffield, Guerrero, Sosa, Pesky, Grimsley, Giambi, Gibbons, Zimmerman, Bonds, Segui, Ramirez, Gherig, Mussina, Clemens, McGuire, Ortiz, Young, Koufax, Ruth and any other people you think may have admitted something at some point and are not to be trusted. As long as there is a keyboard between you and me, anything you are ever going to say is just fine and there will be thousands of people who will take your side. Probably not me, but there are lots of people who will.
M
May 9th, 2007 at 5:38 pm
You are a blowhard. Either say what you mean or don’t say it at all. Kind of reminds me of all your hot opinions about the percentage of players who take steroids. Yet, when you went before Congress you were a deaf mute. And then to blame your comments on the early hour of your radio segment? Please! If it’s too early, try saying no to doing the segment. But if you did you wouldn’t have as much attention drawn to you, would you? And if you’re going to take the money (even if you might be donating it to charity), and I’m sure it’s a substantial amount, try being responsible and waking up more than 30 seconds before the segment. Doesn’t sound very professional; just the kind of thing you love to rip journalists about. An apology is nice but thinking before you open your mouth is even better. In reading your posts, you come off as an awfully angry person. I can’t figure what exactly is so bad about your life.
May 9th, 2007 at 5:38 pm
Curt,
I enjoy listening to you on WEEI and I hope that this does not stop your weekly apperance on there. Your candor is refreshing and your mistakes show me that remarkably you are as human as the rest of us.
May 9th, 2007 at 5:39 pm
You apologized. Big deal. I only hope these comments get as much media play as your initial idiocy, Curt. I hope you’re ashamed of yourself. Especially after all the bile you threw out there last week over something FAR more minor.
The bloody sock: What a joke. It’s a piece of sports mythology. And the fit you threw over it was infantile.
But THIS was inexcusable. You slandered someone who has admitted to NONE of the crap you mentioned. “The court of public opinion” be damned; we have, as of right now, NO positive tests bearing Bonds’ name; NO admissions to infidelity. You people who try to excuse Curt for this slip-up are almost as shameful as he is. Just because Bonds doesn’t sue for slander whenever fools like you slight him with NO proof doesn’t mean that he’s guilty.
Ye gods, I’m tired of these discussions of steroids that are based more on what people say they “know” than what they can prove.
May 9th, 2007 at 5:40 pm
Curt…
Don’t let the Red Sox nation down. You’re a pitcher, not a social commentator. Do what you do best, help us win the World Series again, and keep your opinions to yourself, ok? Do us proud, don’t embarass us anymore.
May 9th, 2007 at 5:43 pm
I’m kind of on the fence about the apology…you have an opinion and you’re entitled to voice it. Still, I applaud you for not using the tired “if anyone was offended…” card or the “taken out of context” card.
May 9th, 2007 at 5:44 pm
Rather I respect Bonds or not, doesn’t justify what you did. I know you would not read this, but I have to say, that lately I have gotten tired of your comments. I mean, when did you become the voice of baseball, or Mr. Morality? Until Bonds is tested positive, then we cannot judge. But, for some reason you beleive you speak for everyone, and the last time I checked, you do not. So, as a professional, I don’t understand why you don’t keep your comments to yourself, and just do what you do best. Pitch. There are people dying in Iraq, and this is your call. I have to say, when I moved here to Tempe, AZ, I really followed your career, but lately my sons and I, have been pushing away.
We all get it. You don’t like Bonds…so what? Plenty of others do not either, and they manage to keep their opinions to themselves. But, yesterday, you mistated the facts. Someday, Bonds will have to answer those tough questions, and then people will be able to judge his character. But doesn’t make what you did alright. And your apology, well, ofcourse its the right thing to do, cause you only do the right thing. I bet your a “perfect” person. I wonder if you and Christ share the same family line. We all fall short, and when someone is as loud as you are, makes me wonder.
Rudy
Tempe, AZ
May 9th, 2007 at 5:45 pm
Not on the Bonds issue. How about the fact that the last 2 players that have passes away, have had weed in their posession. Its seems like there is a drug problem altogether with this sport. Why is the baseball union bigger than any other sport? Are these guys true hereos if they are doing drugs? It seems like this is a mute issue. I don’t thik these 2 are the only ones doing this. What do you think???
Mike
May 9th, 2007 at 5:46 pm
Kurt-
I do agree with your assessment of Bonds, and I give (gave) you credit for calling it as it is instead of ignoring it like all major networks and athletes do. Baseball is of course afraid of pursuing Bonds and steroids in a real way.
Therefore I was surprised and disappointed at your retraction. You understood where those comments would go.
-Masa
May 9th, 2007 at 5:47 pm
I “hate” the Sox… I’m a Yankee fan… having said that, let us applaud Mr. Schilling for understanding the harm he did to Bonds and many others, including his own family. I for one have a new found respect for Mr. Schilling… even though he wears a Sox uniform..
What do we know for SURE when it comes to Bond’s? I mean 100% sure…
We know Conseco used performance enhancing drugs…. why, because he told us he did.
We know for sure Rafael Palmero used performance enhancing drugs… why, because they were found in his system… but does that mean he intentionally did them?
We know for sure Sammy Sosa used a corked bat… why because it broke in the course of his using it for all to see… but was it an anamoly as he claimed or were 500 other dingers achieved with such an illegal bat… we simply do not know.
What about McGuire…
What is all this about…
When Rose was a PLAYER… dont talk to me about his behavior as a MANAGER, whereas, what he admitted to is deplorable and equal to disqualification, but as a player where he set all the records… ummmmmm
Today we want to place the blame on men who brought the game back to national prominance after the strike… are we all so foolish to think management didnt know this was taking place?
One more home run caused great interest… the game went from a strike to an over flowing request for tickets and all associated gear… owners made millions by turning their heads… no matter how the next home run was hit… it was greed that allowed this to happen…
When we have cancer some take chemo… but its simply a band aid…. it puts the cancer in remission… what about the root of the problem,… one must rid itself of the benefactor. The part of the body that benefited from the cancer… In the instant case, we must look to Bud Selig and the owners.
If its obvious to many that Mr. Bond’s took performance enhancing drugs, then it must be equally obvious that Mr. Selig and the ownders ignored the same… now all of us have to pay, whereas, baseball belongs to us, the fan’s.
Is there something I would suggest … absolutely… cheer for Bonds when he breaks the record and one minute later remove Mr. Selig so we can begin to heal.
May 9th, 2007 at 5:49 pm
I’m not sure who died an made you the offical mouth for Baseball injustice. How many times does one guy get a Free Idiot Pass to stick his foot in his mouth, claims its the media thats after him, and then has to apologize for his utterance. In a blog, none the less.
Do yourself, those around you, and your teammates a favor, and keep your mouth shut on subjects you have no expertise on. It’s not good radio, TV, or any other medium that knows your dumb enough to say something that gets them attention because of your ignorance. Add I hope you had the balls to at least call the man personally and apologize.
As a pitcher, I’ve enjoyed watching you perform at such a high level for many years. It’s just when you open your mouth to trash someone else publicly, you look like a moron.
May 9th, 2007 at 5:50 pm
It was obvious from day one that the purpose of this blog was to keep your name in the headlines.
Mission Accomplished.
May 9th, 2007 at 5:51 pm
Curt, We all say at lot of things that are right or wrong,but to apoligize for the sake of family takes a really big man. I hope you can direct your energy and beliefs to the true goodness of the foundation of the game and bring to the great fans of Red Sox Nation a long streak of rings we can all be proud. Joe
May 9th, 2007 at 5:53 pm
Curt,
I must admit I was rather surprised when I heard the comments you made (read them online, but whatever), but I am equally impressed that you have it in you to admit in a public forum that you made a mistake. Hey, it happens to the best of us. Kudos for admitting that you’re human.
Pity though, and not just Barry, but all those who have used steroids, or are thought to have used steroids . . . they either deny it (and some probably are being honest), apologize without saying what they’re apologizing for (even though it’s obvious), deny it some more, or have a rather creepy sobbing video that doesn’t actually say anything, even though it said a lot. My thought is, if you (as in any baseball player, sports star, whatever) took steroids - admit it. Admit the mistake. Apologize. Make a good example of yourself.
Everyone makes mistakes, but everyone can be forgiven when they admit their wrongdoing and make amends as best they can.
Seth
May 9th, 2007 at 5:54 pm
Curt,
The Giants come to town in June. If your number is called and you face Bonds and say he is one home shy of the record, how do you pitch to him? I know a lot depends upon the situation of the game but let’s say you are up by 5 runs and it is in the fifth inning, 2 outs, no one on base. What do you do? Do you go after him? Challenge him? Plunk him (by accident of course - one gets away once in a while) or walk him. Your name is associated with many great things that YOU accomplished, do you “risk” the chance that your name becomes linked with Bonds and the HR record?
May 9th, 2007 at 5:59 pm
You are such a puss and obviously weak to allow those around you to push you into retracting your TRUE statements from yesterday. For once I was impressed that someone had enough guts to step up and say what we all know is true and I respected you for it. Barry Bonds is a disgrace to the game and all sports in general not only with his on field behavior, but his off as well. He doesn’t deserve anyone’s respect or apologies. The fact that you’ve now however, under pressure and in cowardice retracted your statements, makes you no better in my eyes. When are we all going to get over being to afraid that our opinions might offend someone and start speaking the truth. You’re pathetic.
May 9th, 2007 at 5:59 pm
Bonds has never admitted to using steroids, or anything else that you said he admitted. Everyone is entitled to their opinions, but get you facts straight before voicing them.
May 9th, 2007 at 6:00 pm
When is baseball going to actually do something about doping? I mean, cycling decimated the field of dopers from last years Tour de France and they are going to do it again this year, even the big names. Baseball dopers should be drummed out of the sport - two year ban; even those under serious investigation for doping should be sidelined.
On the good side we have guys like Ted Williams who did military service for their country and lost a lot of stats; then we have the modern day dopers who are the most disgusting thing in baseball since throwing the world series, with Bonds being the poster boy for a scrawny kid becoming Atlas (I have a brother who did it and believe him, it was not just the weight room that added all that bulk).
I agree with what you said initially and appreciate your candor. I also understand and appreciate your position and your subsequent apology and it takes some character to do that.
May 9th, 2007 at 6:01 pm
It’s all Love, or an attempt to get back to Love. Maybe for a moment you sounded like you had forgotten that it is possible to disagree with one’s actions without disapproving of the person. But we all forget sometimes. That is why we have Grace.
May 9th, 2007 at 6:05 pm
I’m not going to patronize you and kiss your behind because I am a sox fan. Blood on the sock; World Series ring; 19+ year career . . . none of it matters if at the beginning and end of the day you are an a-hole. All your hateful comments and opinions make you no better than Barry. I think what you said sucks. And for that matter, you suck.
May 9th, 2007 at 6:05 pm
Schill
We have been trying to continue to support you. But you keep yapping about everything and anything and it’s getting downright embarrasing.
In the future when you pop off as you inevitably will, Please don’t make it worse by throwing the Biblical references out in order to justify such things.
As a Christian I find that very insulting.
My 12 year old knows better than to do that.
We will pray for you to reflect and find some true humility in your life.
Until then, please listen to Francona and just zip it.
thank you
Go Red Sox !
May 9th, 2007 at 6:05 pm
Let me start by saying ***Barry Bonds is a cheater - all his stats should be wiped out.***
Steroids are ruining baseball and at least we have someone to call them out on it.
I believe that you meant what you said, despite the apology, and I am proud of you for finally being one of the first to have a backbone and take a stand.
I also believe that this is damage control, and you probably wish you could stand by your statements.
However, Terry called you into his office to speak with you and it resulted in having to apologize to save the Red Sox from bad PR, good for you for being the bigger man there.
And yes, once again Barry bonds is a no good cheater.
May 9th, 2007 at 6:09 pm
Schill…
Some of us love the fact that you speak your mind… that you speak the truth — at least the truth as you see it… and I would dare to say that most of us appreciate and respect your forthrightness.
I am a blogger, too (www.sox1fan.com)… and I have opined on many occasions re: your pentient for outspokenness and “calling a spade a spade”… and I, for one, respect you tremendously for that…
Personally, I don’t believe that your comments caused anyone on the left coast any pain — Barry Bonds’ actions caused himself, his family, his friends and his teammates pain
Barry Bonds DID admit to using “the clear” and “the cream”… although he said it was unknowingly…
And I have some nice Florida real estate to sell you…
Yesterday I wrote the following:
“Curt Schilling isn’t the typical baseball player… the MLBPA-card-carrying, Don-Fehr-lap-dog sycophant who will eschew criticizing another baseball player (who has earned the criticism that is directed toward him) just because he is another baseball player. Curt Schilling speaks his mind… he says what he believes… Curt Schilling stands for something.”
In my opinion, whether everything you say is accurate or not (Bonds never acknowledged tax evasion), you stand for something… it seems to me that you stand for accountability… for integrity… for fairness. And if some ballplayers and / or pundits and / or fans don’t like it, well tough beans!
A brutally honest comment once in a while never hurt anyone… I wish more ballplayers were more open about what they see — and what they think about what they see.
The apology was tremendous and can only serve to enhance your stature in the mind of many people… but, as for me, I think you are being a little too hard on yourself…
As for me, I hope you never change
Jeffrey Brown
SOX1FAN
May 9th, 2007 at 6:10 pm
While I admire the apology…wouldn’t it be easier to just not say anything at all? It cannot just be a coincidence that you are always the one tangled up in these controversies…
May 9th, 2007 at 6:10 pm
Curt I love you and your honesty. I am a big fan of yours and the entire sox team. I just wanted to ask you I mean i was reading somewhere and it caught my attention. I love Papi but there was something arising that his awkward behavior in the 5 game series against the yankees last year. He said he was having stress and dehydration problems. I read somehwhere that those are symptoms of steriods. I love Big Papi and know he would not take them intentionally but whats your take on that.
May 9th, 2007 at 6:11 pm
There is no reason to apoligize there are more on the roid side than non roid. I was 12 years old when Hank broke the Babe’s record, there was alot more hoopla then than there is now and back then there was almost no national sport channels. So let Barry suffer!!!
May 9th, 2007 at 6:14 pm
Hey Curt, dont sweat it. Barry is the biggest DOPE ABUSER in the GAME. He doesnt even deserve to break the record, neverless play professional ball. Barry if you see this lay off on the dope before it screws you over.
May 9th, 2007 at 6:14 pm
Most of the time, Curt, i agree with the things you say. What you said about Barry Bonds during the WEEI interview i do believe to be true, but i do not think you should have publicly admitted. It really does take a man with guts to admit publicly that he was wrong. I am glad that you are apologizing for what you said, even though most knowledgeable baseball fans believe that Barry Bonds did use steroids. I may have the same kind of loathing for that man, who did / is using performance enhancing drugs to break the sacred records that were only written in books due to hard work, but it does not mean that we can accuse him of something until it is proven.
-Derek
May 9th, 2007 at 6:15 pm
Why are you apologizing? What you said was true–you didn’t slander Bonds. Quite frankly, I’m totally disappointed in you. Your spineless. You stated how you feel & you should stick by it.
May 9th, 2007 at 6:15 pm
apology for what. This is America and we are permitted to voice our opinion. I serve in the military to maintain that right. We need to get away from this politically correct BS and get back to business. Next time apologize for the incorrect information.
May 9th, 2007 at 6:18 pm
Curt:
First, let me apologize for the lie that I have been telling my kids since they were old enough to watch a baseball game: I know (and I’m pretty sure they do, too) that you are not really an uncle to them. I had them convinced that we dropped the C in Schilling on one side of the family, and that you were actually my brother.
Now that the truth is out, allow me to say: forget Roger Clemens. Sure, he is a great pitcher, and sure, lots of teams would love to have his talented (albeit aging rapidly) arm as part of their pitching arsenal.
However, The Rocket has now carved himself into the same Graven Image as A-rod, a MLB mercenary who follows the money to best-paying trough. Character and loyalty mean nothing, just sniff out the highest dollar, and if the team has even the most remote chance of being a contender, the closing line is: “sign the check, please.”
Even a baseball purist like myself will not fault him for playing for the best deal on the table. But, at his age, and with a legacy that will follow him to Cooperstown, is it really necessary to willingly don the apparel of a Baseball-harlot? I expected more from Roger Clemens. And the Yankee Evil Empire will soon learn what many of us BoSox fans already know: George can continue to stroke check after check, but there is no way to buy a World Series championship: even one with Roger Clemens as part of the balance sheet.
Go Sox!
May 9th, 2007 at 6:19 pm
Curt, I tend to see a lot more gray area than a lot of people, maybe because I’m 56 and have seen plenty of instances of essentially good people doing things they realized later were wrong. When you were on the radio Tuesday morning I was driving back to home and work after having a birthday breakfast with my daughter, and I heard the whole thing. I was a little surprised at the hard edge of what you said, particularly your invoking Bonds’ infidelity and your “there are good people and bad people” slam. Wouldn’t it be great if life were that simple? My first thought was that, while you are within your rights as a human being to say anything you can back up, it also should carry a lot of weight that you are a member of a team, and as a teammate your remarks are probably inappropriate.
So I think the apology was the right thing to do, and was manfully and accountably done, and my considerable appreciation for your integrity and intelligence have grown a little as a result.
The whole situation still leaves me with a further gripe, not with you but in general. My son (who is
is taking me to the June 16 Sox-Giants game for my birthday — (yeah, he’s a pretty high roller for an 8-year-old). Anyway, I’ve had to explain that if Bonds is on the bubble he probably won’t play that day. To me, it’s kind of sad that people around the country are so polarized around Bonds that he’s unlikely to pursue the last step to the record on the road.
I’ve never known anything personally about Bonds that I have liked, and there’s plenty to dislike, but it has never mattered to me. God knows in the 47 years I have been a fan there have been plenty of great players with major chinks in their moral armor. I enjoyed watching Gaylord Perry pitch regardless of his admissions that he cheated at the game. I loved to watch Boggsie hit despite his infidelities and general weirdness. I lived and died with every minute of Larry Bird’s career despite his long-time failure as a father to his first daughter. Plenty of my favorite players were ultimately exposed as drunks, philanderers, cheats, etc. I knew enough about my own human frailties to try to avoid passing moral judgment on jocks any more than I would pass judgment on my neighbor. Hey, it’s sports. You guys are professional athletes and entertainers. Sometimes some of you cross the line and seek to be judged as something else, with a higher bar, and when that happens different rules apply. But I guess in the vast majority of cases I have a problem with efforts to moralize any pro sport, and then, once the moralizing has begun, to say that one guy is all bad when (a) there were dozens (hundreds?) of other guys who were juiced; and (b) the Selig regime was definitely winking and looking the other way. Just my humble opinion. Keep up the great pitching, and the great blogging too, Curt.
Windwalker
May 9th, 2007 at 6:23 pm
I do not think you said anything alot of people were not thinking, including myself. I say too much sometimes, even if I am right. We might be better off making our point with less words, and let people read beween the lines.
May 9th, 2007 at 6:24 pm
Hey Curt,
Well written. If Bonds can’t accept that apology, then he has other demons to work out. I’m sure we’ll know for sure in the series against the Giants.
Also, Nixon;s coming back the 28th! I’ll be there, and I think you’re scheduled to pitch, so best of luck to you!
Rob Mo
Cape Elizabeth, ME
May 9th, 2007 at 6:26 pm
Curt, you have got to be kidding me…
I’ll use your own words to explain,
“That was a stupid idiotic apology to make”
You had the stones to say it…don’t compromise your credibility by caving. What you sais was true, if anybody doesn’t like it…
F$%* EM !!!!!!!!!
May 9th, 2007 at 6:27 pm
Curt there is sometimes no way to say te right thing but I know I understand where you were coming from. I also understand the apology but I know you mean every word of it but thats ok. I believe it as well. It didn’t seem like a big deal at the time but you got espnized so you had to go do this. Never stop being the Schilling most of us love and honor , for you did have something to do with our first championship in a while and for that the pedestal with always be there as far as I am concerned. Thanks Curt
May 9th, 2007 at 6:27 pm
Curt, you have got to be kidding me…
I’ll use your own words to explain,
“That was a stupid idiotic apology to make”
You had the stones to say it…don’t compromise your credibility by caving. What you said was true, if anybody doesn’t like it…
F$%* EM !!!!!!!!!
May 9th, 2007 at 6:27 pm
Hey Curt excuses are like aholes, everybody has one. You are a worthless peice of cow dung. You only appoligized because you were forced to.
May 9th, 2007 at 6:27 pm
Those EEI interviews do always sound like you rolled out of bed. Hell man, you spoke from the gut when you were asked point blank if fans would have to “hold their nose” about Bonds breaking the record. I still agree with everything you said. You spoke your mind then, and it was obviously on the minds of many of us, including the people asking these questions. These issues aren’t news to anyone.
But you’re speaking your mind again now, and as much as I think Bonds is a lout, your retraction is understandable. I’m a firm believer that if you think you’ve hurt somebody with what you’ve said, then an apology is in order… a real apology, one void of qualifiers and excuses. It’s rare to see public figures do it. It takes guts and a real measure of humility. If this was what was on your heart, then you did the right thing.
At the end of the day we all make the bed we lie in. Bonds has certainly made his. All the Curt Schilling apologies in the world won’t change the decisions he’s made on and off the field and the consequences he will reap from them. Unfortunately for Barry, this thing will play itself out regardless of who says what.
In the mean time remember the tongue is a fire and who can tame it, my friend? Even the good book doesn’t leave this as a rhetorical question. No one can tame it! It happens to all of us… some more than most! All you can do is apologize sincerely and do better the next time.
May 9th, 2007 at 6:28 pm
Curt, I really didnt think it was a big deal. I’m sure Barry has heard alot worse. Barry should be cheered when he breaks the record. He had Hall of Fame numbers before the steroid era. Also he has been tested like crazy since the Balco incident and has not been found positive; but is still rocking out homeruns. This man should be given his credit and be cheered when he breaks the record. It gets me mad when sports writers say he shouldn’t be in the hall because he broke the integrity of the game. But these same people would vote Pete Rose in the HALL if he were eligible. Didn’t he undermine the integrity of the game? Do you think race is an issue?
Always a Schilling Fan,
Mike
May 9th, 2007 at 6:30 pm
I know it’s pretty much tactless to ask you to respond to comments made by a person like Jose Canseco, however he made a comment on ESPN radio today stating that you “lied before congress” and were a “hypocrite”. I had never heard this allegation before. Is this something he is dreaming up, or has there been talk about your testimony before?
May 9th, 2007 at 6:31 pm
Curt I’m a little disappointed you are apologizing for your statements. The statement about his wife was possibly uncalled for. Yet, you spoke the truth. But, unfortunately your main message was missed because of all the other comments. BONDS IS A CHEATER! I can’t stand it. Look at any picture of him with the Pirates to the Giants. He is huge now. Granted people get bigger with age but its rare that someone’s entire body frame changes. I purposely signed up to comment on your blog today just about this issue. You do not hear enough people scolding Bonds in the media. Cheating is a major injustice to the game. I’m a pretty young guy, only 18 years old. But, in my talks with my grandfather who is an avid baseball fan I’ve come to respect the history of the game. It’s a discredit to all those guys that did things the right way. Mantle, Ruth, Mays, Aaron, Williams, Musial what if any of those guys were on steriods? Their all great players as is Bonds, but he should not be let into the Hall of Fame. He has cheated the game. Who knows how many homeruns Williams would have hit on juice? It’s really sad. Yet, as my grandfather and I turned on ESPN and we heard your comments, I was shocked, but also happy. Finally, someone had called the man for what he is, a cheater. The apology unfortunately takes away some of the orginal muster of publicly calling him a steriod user , yet I just hope you read this and understand that I’m really happy that someone had the guts to call him out. Bravo.
May 9th, 2007 at 6:33 pm
I’ll be more forgiving when you give back your Arizona DBacks World Series ring that you guys won because Luis Gonzalez was juiced on steroids, c’mon the guy hit 57 home runs that year and never more then 30 (and that was only once) any other time in his life. Until then, you and Selig and all the other baseball hypocrites should just shut up and give Barry his due. I have nothing but respect for you and the way you play the game but give the ring back if you really want to make a stand against steroids in the game.
May 9th, 2007 at 6:34 pm
Boy what a man. Everybody keeps telling you what a man you are for apoligizing for your comments, but it takes a man to hold his mouth shut before the words come out. Great excuse you used that you just woke up. Curt you probably used seriods in your carrer at some point but you would rather look at somebody to avoid whats killing you inside. You sound upset that Barry gets so much attention, and you, only get a blog about blood on your sock. It makes you jealous inside that your apperance on the mound can’t change a game the way Barry can sitting on the bench. You always have been on the brink of a good or great player that it makes you mad that you can’t get over the hill so your on the other side with Barry. It makes me sick knowing I spent money to see you get your 300 stikeout in what ever year that was. O by the way what a man by taking shots at his family and personal life.
May 9th, 2007 at 6:34 pm
Ahh Curt, I still love you.
As for steroids, I am in complete disagreement with you. Check out a recent steroid article I posted:
http://www.third-option.com/2007/03/performance-enhancing-drugs.html
May 9th, 2007 at 6:35 pm
Get a life curt! Im so sick of people like you dogging Barry Bonds! He is a great player and all you guys are doing is making a soap opera out of the game! What do you care about the record anyways! I thought you were a good guy and I was happy when you won the series a couple years ago! But now I see you as just another baby that has to dog on Bonds to get noticed! I didnt see you or anyone else saying anything when he and Mcguire, and sosa were saving the game only 9 or so yrs ago! Maybe you took steroids! Im sure 90 percent of ballplayers have so why do you take it out on the best? The man is what 43 and still one of the most fear hitters in the game! I guess its because he on viagra or something now right cuz according to you and all the others like you he cant just be the best! The guy has the best swing and maybe he is just that good! I gave you the benefit of the doubt when the bloody sock thing came out so maybe you should do the same! Remember innocent until proven guilty! He’ll be homering off you soon! And I cant wait!
May 9th, 2007 at 6:35 pm
Curt,
I am very dissapointed that the greatest record in all of sports is getting ready to fall, and as a sports fan, I am NOT excited about it and am still hanging on to the hope that somehow it won’t happen. This guy is the definition of a ‘jerk’, and is clearly a selfish person who has no respect for his team, the game, or the people who played before him. However, as a fan I can say a lot more than you can.
First, you have teammates who have cheated on their wives, taxes, and/or the game, cheaters are cheaters. How do you think they feel about your comments?
Second, when this blog began, my concern that I addressed twice was that your open forum would create comments that could potentially disrupt the Red Sox clubhouse. You never did address those comments, and now I am hoping you will.
I do not care about Bonds, he will eventually pay the price for his indiscretions, and if he does break Hank’s record basball and the public’s reaction will prove to him that he has fooled no one. I do care about the Red Sox, and I am 100% certain that eventually you are going to say something here, or on WEEI, or someplace else that will greatly offend one of your teammates and disrupt the chemistry that you recently spoke of in the clubhouse. (If you haven’t already done so.)
In AZ or Philly, it may not be as big of a deal, but the truth is you are in Boston now. I am not a fan of the Boston media, but reality is that these problems don’t go unnoticed, nor do they go away here as quickly as they do elsewhere.
I have been a steady reader of your blog, and I would love for you to reassure me that you are doing everything possible to make sure that nothing that is said here can come back to do damage in the clubhouse.
Thank you
May 9th, 2007 at 6:38 pm
Nice to apologize, blaming it on the early morning hour is a sham. Your amazing arrogance and rightousness are the basis for your comments.
May 9th, 2007 at 6:41 pm
I lost all respect for Bonds when I heard him in an interview trash Babe Ruth. He said Ruth was a ‘nothing’ compared to him. When you disrespect the great players that come before you, then you are a very sad person.
So now Bonds can make millions owing in part to Ruth’s contribution both performing and promoting the game. All he could say was that Ruth was a ‘nothing’. Amazing how proficient Bonds can be as an athlete, yet so devoid in other areas of humanity.
May 9th, 2007 at 6:41 pm
I commend your apology, and I like you, are very opinionated. The problem I have is that many have cheated. The Niekro brothers wrote books about how to cheat…..one or both are in the Hall of Fame. The last time I checked pitchers had the advantage against hitters. When is the last time someone batted over .400? Why not the outcry to get them yanked from the Hall of Fame? Don’t tell me it’s different. Robbery, whether it is armed or not, is just that….robbery. Many have used steroids admitedly, but why are no one elses stats close to Bonds? I will tell you why, because he is the best. I don’t like him. He is abrasive at best, but he is still dominating………everyone needs to get over it…..I have. Once again, I DO NOT like Bonds, but steroids cannot make you that consistent. It has not for anyone else, but hey, maybe he just had the best dealer…..doubt it.
May 9th, 2007 at 6:47 pm
No apology necessary.
May 9th, 2007 at 6:50 pm
You were right the first time. I wish you hadn’t recanted, but I’m sure there were politics behind it. The fearless clean players need to start outing the cheaters. Vive le revelution!
Before you’d said anything, I was wondering if any pitchers were going to walk him when he gets closer to the record. If you do meet up with Bonds, I hope you do follow through and walk him. Walk the cheater!
May 9th, 2007 at 6:50 pm
Everything we do affects people. What you said was accurate, so perhaps Barry should be the one to evaluate his actions and offer an apology for his actions that have not only affected his friends and family, but also a nation of baseball fans; players and laymen included.
May 9th, 2007 at 6:50 pm
First, I’d like to say i’m a die hard yankees fan. I’ve hated Curt ever since 2001, when he destroyed my team. And then the RedSox thing made matters worse. However, I respect Curt for apologizing. It was the right thing to do. But I’m sure it wasn’t wholehearted. Nor should it be. Bonds has cheated his way to this record, laughing at everyone all the way, but you can’t but feel bad for someone like Schilling. He keeps in pretty good shape, has a long list of accomplishments, and worked very hard to get where he is. Then you see this guy cheating on the game, you can’t help but want to hate this guy. He insults everything Schilling stands for. If he gets the record, which he probably will, its going to be tainted until someone breaks it. Its as simple as that. With the way Arod’s going, it probably won’t stand for long.
May 9th, 2007 at 6:52 pm
i agreed with your first statement and am saddened to see you retract it. thats the problem with sports today , no one is willing to hold anyone else accountable. i had hoped for a brief moment that maybe you were going to do your part to change it. but it seems we all just slid back to the dont ask dont tell way of the past. how can we expect the game to ever get better if the people who are the heart and soul of it, the players, just turn a blind eye and say “its not my place to judge”. its sad, i lost a lot of respect for francona today too. not a banner day for baseball
May 9th, 2007 at 6:55 pm
Curt,
Don’t beat yourself up too much about it. Frankly, I think you were dead on. Bonds is a bum and completely undeserving of any titles and/or respect.
-Cait
May 9th, 2007 at 6:56 pm
Curt,
Wow, I am disappointed in you. Either have a blog or not. Either say what you feel, or give a disclaimer everytime that you might need to backtrack when the “powers that be” come down on you.
What can I believe now that I read? Do you really mean your comments, or are you waiting to see how they play out in the court of public opinion before you truly own them?
May 9th, 2007 at 6:57 pm
I’m not sure that you realize that ALL you do is play a game……does anybody really need or care to hear your opinion?? The day you left Arizona was a happy day for me. You and your arrogance are NOT missed here in Scottsdale.
May 9th, 2007 at 7:00 pm
Curt,
You have NOTHING to apologize for. You only said what baseball fans around the world are thinking, and if Francona or Seilig got on you for it, screw em.
Human beings don’t grow the way Bonds did, and the sooner people realize this, the better off the sport will be. Cheating isn’t a race issue, it’s a moral issue.
May 9th, 2007 at 7:01 pm
Thanks, Curt,
I know you don’t want to feel like some hero for apologizing, but you were a stand up guy and took responsibility. Also, you are refreshing BECAUSE you will speak your mind and don’t get all hung up on political correctness. We get tired of politicians, you know?
But, we all want to keep Tito and all the bosses happy, and you’re a gentleman, so you did the right thing.
I live in Atlantic Beach, Florida, and I want you to know I pay more than $60 a month JUST for Red Sox and NESN coverage!! That’s over and above cable bill!
You guys are so much fun to watch. Schill, keep writing your blog, get out your black t-shirt from last year: “I can see your lips moving, but all I hear is blah, blah, blah…”
Keep those honest blogs coming - keep pitching like the super ace you are, keep encouraging and appreciating your fellow starters and the bullpen. I know it’s early, but dare I say…I have a good feeling!!
Bish
May 9th, 2007 at 7:01 pm
Dear Curt,
I admire you as a competitor and actvist, but I really hate you as a person. You of all people should know the feeling when someone accuses you of something that can not be legally proven beyond a reasonable doubt, such as the false claims the NY media has accused you of. As a baseball fan and African-American, I found your comments to be very disrespectful to one of my heros, and to the game I love. I believe you are a biggot, and your comments have elevated you to the level of baseball’s verson of T.O. As fate will have it, I hope Bonds hits 755 off of you.
May 9th, 2007 at 7:03 pm
There’s nothing out of line with either having an opinion, or expressing it. If you’re asked about someone who we all know is a cheater, what’s wrong with saying how you feel?
He’s not your teammate. He’s not your colleague. You don’t owe him anything. You don’t give up your first amendment rights when you put on a baseball uniform.
Would you feel the same need to keep apologize and keep quiet about Kim Jung Il or Hugo Chavez?
May 9th, 2007 at 7:06 pm
This is PATHETIC! You aplogized because you were getting so much heat about the cruel, insensitive and ungrounded things you said about Bonds not because you just had some sort of epiphany about right and wrong. I just heard on the radio here in sunny San Francisco that Francona told you to zip it on this issue.
Who are you to talk about another man’s marital fidelity or taxes or even whether or not he really did take any illegal substances?
If there’s anything in baseball that’s on steroids, it’s your ego and it has been that way for a very long time.
On another note, I believe the stories about the painted sock and that too is…pathetic!
May 9th, 2007 at 7:06 pm
Curt,
This is one time I respect you. I agree with what you initially said. I am glad you appologized and your appology was very sincere and real. However, I lived in Philly in ‘93. I don’t remember you publicly appologizing to Mitch Williams when you blamed him for losing the World Series.
May 9th, 2007 at 7:09 pm
You were absolutely right… i don’t know the reasons why you apologized? Maybe speaking about someones personal affairs? Thats understandable, the personal life stuff.. but baseball related? You were right, you know you were right, i know you were right, everyone here knows you were right, and i wished you would take back the apology! Barry Bonds has always been a bad person and he deserves nothing in my eyes. Not an apology, no accolades, NOTHING!
May 9th, 2007 at 7:11 pm
what happened to my earlier reply…it took awhile to write it!!??
May 9th, 2007 at 7:14 pm
Curt,
I must say that I am not disappointed in the comments that you made about Barry Bonds. I am sad to think that you had to apologize for what you said because you made no racial comments nor did you make any slanderous comments. I believe that you have the right to call someone out if they did something wrong…it works that way in every profession. I am a visual fx artist and if someone cheated in my profession they would be blacklisted…even though there is no actual “list” people in my industry talk. I think that someone with your tenure in a particular sport or profession has the responsibility to question something or someone if you believe that it was done dishonestly….it is another version of checks and balances and it is the only way to keep the sport pure. You have proven yourself in sports and in life…..don’t apologize for anything.
May 9th, 2007 at 7:15 pm
Over the years, I’ve been a player, a fan, and now a coach as my sons have grown. I love baseball above all other sports, for the purity, beauty, and integrity of the game. As a coach, I’ve always taught my players to respect the game. Usually at first, they have no idea what I’m talking about, but by the end of the season they usually understand it, and that’s important to me. I’ve enjoyed following your career from being a Sox farmhand through your time with the Phillies, Diamondbacks, and now back to the Sox. More than that I’ve enjoyed that you speak what’s on your mind whether it’s pc or not. It’s clear that you respect the game and are concerned about its future. For that, I’ve always been a fan of yours, and view you as a vanishing breed. Maybe all of us 40 and over are becoming dinosaurs, who knows. That’s why it was a bit strange to read today’s “apology”. While I understand that you may be a bit disconcerted, as I’m sure you didn’t mean to drag anyone other than Barry into the fray, I hope you continue to speak out on the larger issues facing baseball. You have a unique platform, as an elder statesman in the game and a respected ambassador for the sport. Your original comments were spoken with concern and respect for the game, and no one, least of all yourself, should ever feel the necessity of bowing to the pressure of the pc police. You have your feelings regarding the game, and I applaud you for speaking them and sharing them. The bigger thing though is that maybe your comments make some kid think, or maybe even understand what baseball is supposed to be all about. I know those kids are out there, I see them every season, I hear them discussing the issues that MLB faces. They’re the future of the game, if not as players, then as fans and maybe coaches. Keep it up Curt. The silent majority is with you 100%!
May 9th, 2007 at 7:20 pm
It is hard for you to resist the media. I don’t blame you.
I don’t think it was the right place to say that, but I agree with you.
You know by now how this country works - saying that was a very conscious descision.
What do you hope to accomplish? - or is it what you are doing more a commentary on the journey rather than the destination? (which for you I assume is heaven).
I wish you would do pod casts. maybe create a chat-room type forum like they have on the ESPN websites.
John
May 9th, 2007 at 7:20 pm
Curt: This is my first message to you and I want you to know that there have been times which I have loved what you stood for and believed and then there have been times which I just wanted to beat the snot out of you, you ticket me off so bad.
I am an avid follower of the San Francisco Giants and have been fortunate enough to see quite a few of Barry Bonds home runs either on TV, at AT&T Park or other ballparks I have had the chance to visit.
My gripe with you is this … Barry has worked very hard to earn what he has got today. He has been around some good and some bad people and there have been times where I ask myself if he just needs to lock himself in his own house and take control of his own person.
This season, Bruce Bochy has been very positive on Barry and the entire San Francisco team and I commend him for being able to handle such a team with youth and veteran players and still maintain a great standing in the NL West just 33 games into the season.
Back to my point … you have had to work hard to get where you are today and Barry has had to do the same. It doesn’t come overnight, just as muscle mass takes time to develop.
While I commend you and your ability to make a public apology, please let me remind you that the subject of steroids is a very serious and sensitive one. We all have our own opinions, and some are positive and some are negative.
All I ask you to do is please be more sensitive to those you decide to point out. It is ok to call people out, however, there is a tactful and an untactful way to do this.
Thank you for being a man and admitting you were wrong, however, thank you for also pointing out the sensitivity you violated and pointing out that you need to have more respect for that sensitivity in the future, that went further for me than the actual apology.
May 9th, 2007 at 7:23 pm
Curt,
I have a bigger problem with you claiming to hate the media. I can only think you LOVE it…you’re always shooting off at the mouth. You want to be heard. I think you’re an ego maniac just like Barry. If somebody went to the press about you like this you would of flipped. Francona is right, shut up..No one cares what you think about everything. And I think it’s nice that you wrote I’m sorry on your blog but did you call Barry? Or are you just apologizing for saying what you said out loud. You can say sorry all you want but it doesn’t hide how you feel. Barry knows.
You guys are funny…You talk about Barry and say I’m Sorry…Wells talks about Roger but now he says “he didn’t mean it and he’s jealous.”
What were you saying about Gary Thorne again?
Kurtz
May 9th, 2007 at 7:34 pm
Over the years I have heard, read, and even made quite a few apologies. This one, however, strikes me as one of the most thoughtful, empathetic, heartfelt, and meaningful apologies I have ever encountered. I have respected you as a ballplayer for quite some time. I now also respect you as a man and a role model.
I hope you don’t even think about giving up the EEI gig. That sort of access (like this kind) simply is unavailable elsewhere. I hope you understand just how much we appreciate it. Thanks again for showing us the man behind the curtain.
May 9th, 2007 at 7:38 pm
Good stuff. I’m an Oakland fan and a Boston hater, but I can respect that.
May 9th, 2007 at 7:39 pm
Easy to apologize in a day, but the effects of your comments , may cause a ripple in the ocean , into a tidalwave that may last… days, months, years? of harm. One will never know the kind of damage the tidal wave created in its path.
Like you said ..you made a mistake… oh well…. just apologize. I guess it’s a small price to pay.
I was surprised a man such as yourself who doesn’t enjoy the press, would encourage more press on another fellow baseball proffesional ( Barry ) as if he needed more press. Let alone giving yourself more press at the same time.
May 9th, 2007 at 7:39 pm
I know that you crave attention but sometimes you should just use your energy on playing MMORPG and shut up. Seeing you 1 out of 5 days is enough, give the other baseball players their own media time will ya!
May 9th, 2007 at 7:40 pm
All I have to say is it’s about time someone said what needed to be said. I understand why you have to apologize - but thanks for saying it.
Go Sox!
May 9th, 2007 at 7:40 pm
Wow! I just started to read your blog a few weeks ago, I am totally impressed that there are people out there in the world today that can admit to being human, especially someone in a position such as yourself. It’s hard to find a real role model in the world and I think you have proven yourself worthy of that title. Thanks
May 9th, 2007 at 7:42 pm
As a Giants Fan, I have seen Barry bonds play since he got here in 1993. I respect him as a Man who values his privacy, As a Player that has used all of his ability yo play at a high level. He Has passed every test and is still the most feared player. Let me ask You something
Have you ever been bashed by the media everyday?
Has anyone sent you a death threat?
Has anyone judged you for something you havent done?
you have no idea what it is to be Bonds, and you never will. and he is still plaing at a high level.
How Old are you Curt? you are still playing at a high level, correct?…why can bonds? Look at yourself in the mirror before you judge without proof?
One more thing, I didnt see you bashing McGwire when he was breaking the single season homerun record…did i?
May 9th, 2007 at 7:43 pm
I don’t know Curt, maybe you should just stop talking and play baseball. We all know Barry cheated and he has to live with it and the rest of you fella’s should just play baseball.
Just an FYI, real boston sports fans laugh at the local sportswriters/talk show hosts…..it’s entertainment and let’s not forget they are the “real sports experts”………how about that Dickerson……..do you even think was a water boy for a sports team? I don’t even think he was cheerleader!
Peace and keep throwing strikes!
May 9th, 2007 at 7:43 pm
It’s sad to have heard that you’ve backed off of your comments from yesterday. You’re just a sad case of a media whore. You’re just shameless as anyone to blame it on the media to misquote you and especially the “early hour” ambushed you???? C’mon, you’ve been shooting your mouth off for years and now you’re saying this? I have been a fan of yours for a long time and up until I read this apology off of ESPN. Do you realize that you’re less than a man you ever were? For those who said you’re THE MAN to apologize, it’s not true at all. C’mon, BBonds has been cheating baseball, the game and its fans for so many years…you HAD the courage to say something straight out and yet you’ve BACKED OFF like a poor puppy just hours later, can you sleep right tonight or do you wish you haven’t issued an apology at all. I know this apology is only a smoking screen just to make pple happy to hear, but the truth is, if this is ever sincere, I dont think you, Curt, yes you can LIVE with yourself.
Trust me, I applauded your take yesterday….don’t back off like a scared little puss and take on Roger Clemens, cuz if you can with Bonds, you can with Clemens.
May 9th, 2007 at 7:46 pm
That was a wonderful thing to read. It renews my faith in sports figures. Thank you for being someone the kids can look up to! (But sorry, I’m still a Yankees fan!)
May 9th, 2007 at 7:48 pm
I don’t see anything wrong with calling a steroid ridden freak a steroid ridden freak. Hank Aaron was an amazing ball player and a classy guy and when Bonds breaks his record what should be the greatest sports achievement of my generation will be nothing more than a huge blemish. No apology needed!
May 9th, 2007 at 7:48 pm
Hey bro, I’m glad you said what you felt originally. But enough with apologies. Apologies do not retract anything, they definitely do not make people feel better, they don’t help, and the person that the apology is directed to will probably not forgive you. Just ask Imus.
This is the problem that this country is facing. Everybody is so afraid of saying what they feel and what they mean they nothing meaningful ever gets said. The only time when something relevant is stated, it almost always needs an apology afterwards.
Barry Bonds took steroids. oops, sorry
Giambi took steroids. oops sorry
Canseco took steroids. oops sorry
Rose gambled. oops sorry
A-rod wears too much makeup and slaps like a girl . oops not sorry
May 9th, 2007 at 7:48 pm
Curt,
I am disappointed that you have apologized for what you said. I think that players current and former need to speak the mind. Alot of the public does not like Barry because he has brought this on himself. I understand you had to do what you felt was necessary for the team and yourself, but you mentioned that you felt great with the blog and not the media, then you turn around and apologize. Maybe it was meant for the family and tax stuff but I surley would not had for the steroids.
Continue the good work.
May 9th, 2007 at 7:48 pm
Check yourself Schilling:
Meanwhile, that noted philosopher, Curt Schilling, blasted Bonds in a radio
interview saying, “He admitted he used steroids. . . He admitted cheating on his wife, cheating on taxes and cheating on the game.”
Well, as a matter of fact, Bonds hasn’t admitted any of that; others have made those claims.
But, can we believe that Schilling thinks none of his teammates have taken drugs, cheated on their wives or lied on their income tax returns? In previous interviews, he’s shown himself to be terminally stupid. This was just the latest example.
-From Glenn Dickey’s Website
May 9th, 2007 at 7:48 pm
Curt don’t worry about it man, you’ve got way too many things to worry about other than some comment you left Bonds…Just keep doing your thing…your one of the greatest pitchers to play the game your entitled to your own opinion, and if people don’t agree than the hell with them…Keep up the great season so far!!
May 9th, 2007 at 7:52 pm
Curt,
I’m not sure what you’re apologizing for. Most baseball feels feel that Bonds doesn’t deserve to break Hank Aaron’s record. Most baseball fans believe that Bonds used steroids. Stop apologizing and stand by what has been proven to be true (Game of Shadows) - Bonds used steroids and does not deserve to break the record.
May 9th, 2007 at 7:52 pm
Bonds is being unfairly singled out in this entire mess. Yes, I know it’s because he’s closing in on the record. But I believe it is completely irresponsible for someone like yourself to attack him (and only him), when there are hundreds and hundreds of other probable users. These are people who have played against you and WITH you throughout your long career. Are you ready to declare that every member of your World Series teams from Arizona and Boston were all 100% clean? All 50 players? Are you ready to give back your World Series ring if one of them is not? I highly doubt that. So, please, don’t throw stones in glass houses.
May 9th, 2007 at 7:56 pm
Mr. Shilling I’ve never been a Red Sox fan, nor will I become one at any point in my life, but the apology you gave means a lot to more people than you may realize.
I’m actually taking a class called “Law, Politics, and the National Past Time” and today we discussed the comments you made about Barry and the way people feel about his pursuit to break baseball’s “most sacred record”.
Firstly, if Barry had even admitted to taking steroids, he would not have been the first player to accomplish the unthinkable while using an illegal substance. In fact there was even a pitcher who completed a perfect game while on LSD, and another who said that he sprinkled marijuana on his breakfast in the morning.
As many of you know from the 80’s onward, there was a huge shift towards the longball… and they did tests on balls used before the shift, and after the shift and found that the balls used now are what they call “Juiced”. This means that the balls were designed to travel farther by tightening or loosening the string within the leather cover of the ball. These balls were not chosen by team… they were chosen by MLB, and they denied the fact that they were juiced. There was also a study done that found the majority of athletes at a professional level would use steroids, despite the horrible things it does to your body, if they could. So my question is this…. Is Barry the only one to blame? I think people just needed a reason to hate him because the media makes him look like a jerk, which is my next point.
Barry grew up watching the media hound his father… He was born into fame… he’s used to the media being around and they get upset when he doesn’t give them the juicy details that they want. In my class today, one guy spoke up and said that “America doesn’t like Barry Bonds because he’s a jerk… He’s not a good role model for children” Well my question to him was, do you expect Barry to raise your kids? Is it in his contract that he has to be on best behavior so that your kids don’t grow up to be jerks? That is, if hating the source of your unhapiness in an outspoken manner, makes you a jerk… Not to note that there were 5 seperate people who spoke about having personal encounters with Barry, and 5 out of 5 said that he was very friendly and some said he was so friendly that they completely changed their opinion of him afterwards.
Anyways, I know a lot of you ignorant Bonds haters will read this and not remember a single legitimate arguement… But maybe there are a couple of you out there who can see through the mask the media makes Bonds wear.
Food for Thought - Barry is the only player with his own club… 400HR/400SB, and 500HR, 500SB. He ranks among legendary baseball players in nearly every hitting category… not to mention around 12 silver slugger awards, 7 MVP (4 consecutive), and 8 gold gloves. Oh yea, and so far this season he’s averaging .330+ and is leading the NL in homeruns. Oh and he’s 43.
May 9th, 2007 at 7:58 pm
Curt -
As a Red Sox fan, I’m glad you apologized for this quickly, because I was embarrassed when I heard what you said. We are all intelligent enough to know that Bond’s steroid issues are what they are, but for you to extend your comments to his other personal situations was simply wrong, even if you had been factually correct.
I can’t speak for other Red Sox fans, but I’m personally tired of all the melodrama that accompanies your presence on the team. I cheer for you when you pitch, and I’m glad to have you on the club based on your performance, but I could do without the constant stream of crap that seems to follow you around. I recognize and appreciate that much of that is brought about by the media, particularly certain churlish, chinless Irishmen who shall remain nameless, but you’ve been doing this long enough, and have been in Boston long enough, to recognize that you’re not helping the issue.
You can THINK anything you want, and when you’re not representing your employer you can SAY anything you want. But in any situation where you represent my baseball team (and yes, a sports-talk show about baseball issues qualifies), I would greatly appreciate it if you would please stop the jousting and running battle with the media, avoid loaded questions, and keep your non-baseball opinions to yourself during the baseball season. You’re a veteran, not a rookie. Stop acting like Nuke LaLoosh and try acting more like Crash Davis.
May 9th, 2007 at 8:04 pm
I don’t think you need to apologize for having the balls to say what everyone else is thinking. Barry Bonds cheated. Anyone looking at his neck can see it. When someone restates facts they have nothing to be apologetic about.
Barry Bonds’ home run record will be broken quickly. Then we can celebrate Hank Aaron, who is still an inspiration for young people of today. The steroid era will be a blip in the history of baseball as will Barry’s hold on the record.
P.S. Your performance in the 2004 alcs is the stuff of baseball lore (ranking up there with Shoeless Joe, babe’s pointing out his shot, and The Natural knocking out the lights). I rue the day when Steinbrenner wouldn’t pull the trigger on Rueben Rivera for Curt Schilling (I think it was spring training in 96) We got Irabu instead… oooffff
May 9th, 2007 at 8:05 pm
I’m wondering why a guy who supports GWB, a war criminal who is supporting the killing of innocent people in Iraq and Afghanistan, has any right to comment on the behaviour of anyone. Does it make you feel morally superior in some way?
Now you say you are sorry. Who cares? You already said what you wanted. Are you another Imus guy? Best that you stick to pitching as you are a little leaguer when it come to public policy and discourse.
May 9th, 2007 at 8:08 pm
I’m just one of the thousands who’s completely sick of listening to you. You are a self promoting windbag who never stops. If you have a problem with someone you should take it up with them man to man. Stop hiding behind radio shows/blogs/etc.
For someone who “hates the media” you sure do talk to, and through, the media a lot. We’ve all had enough of your informed ignorant comments. You’re not the prophet of baseball.
I hope Barry breaks the record off of you…oh wait you’re not man enough to pitch to him. He’d own you anyway.
May 9th, 2007 at 8:09 pm
I’m glad you stepped up and apologized because I have a lot of respect for you as a player and a person and I did not want something like this to ruin my image of you. I think a lot of other Sox fans are glad you apologized for the same reasons I am. However, I hope you smoke Bonds when he comes to the plate at Fenway.
May 9th, 2007 at 8:09 pm
Curt,
stick to your gunnz— i know your christian, but if what you say will positively change oppinions in MLB and fans then dont back down. ” being a leader means staying on that path even when they try to knock you off it”
Jon from ware~
May 9th, 2007 at 8:10 pm
Curt, PLEASE!!! I love ya, man but I don’t need to hear your opinions about religion, politics and other people’s personal lives on ESPN every other day. This blog is great when it focuses on BASEBALL. Of course it is your right to voice your opinions on these matters but it should NEVER cause distractions for the team. I hate to say it———but————ZIP IT!!!!!!!!!!
May 9th, 2007 at 8:13 pm
Curt,
I find your articulate outspoken style refreshing and exceptionally distinctive in today’s politically correct conventional media.
When you apologized and essentially retracted your statements made on WEEI, you lost some of your sponteneous credibility. Personally, I doubt that you would have made the comments that you did if you hadn’t believed that they were true. While I have no problem with your subsequent reflection on your comments and your apology to those offended, noticeably absent was any statement re=affirming your essential beliefs. That smacks of compliance under pressure. I thought that you were beyond that.
May 9th, 2007 at 8:18 pm
all these people who say Barry using roids has never been proven…..what part of his admitting it on the leaked grand jury transcript do you not believe?
wake up kool aid drinkers…your boy Barry is and was a cheater. Admit it, accept it and move on.
May 9th, 2007 at 8:20 pm
Well, your apology has certainly raised my opinion of you. You manned up and set an example others ought to follow. Class act on your part in a realm where class rarely shows its face.
On the other hand, was anything you said about Bonds NOT true?????
May 9th, 2007 at 8:20 pm
Freaking Crazy eh?
Right is now Wrong,
Good is now Bad,
Cheating is now “trying hard” and over looked by most,
Being a baseball Mercenary for NY is hailed as a Positive,
and calling a cheater a cheater…
one gets reprimanded.
Props to not being afraid to speak your mind. You gatta love those that throw the “Christian” thing in your face. Perfect you are not. THANK GOD FOR THAT! Or else you’d have been strung up on that Cross.
… You will know the Man by his fruits… and his Monstrous Dome.
Props to calling a user a user. We all know it, and most of us say it too. If it has a head like a duck, hits like a duck… it must be a ??? duck?
Most of the idiots posting here can only dream of being an “okay” baseball player when they were a kid.
Props to Calling Barroid a cheater.
*****
May 9th, 2007 at 8:21 pm
I fail to see anyting about what you said was factually incorrect. He did admit to using sterroids (whether knowingly or not which is up for debate), he did cheat on his taxes, and he did cheat on his wife. Maybe you didn’t have to call him out, but that doesn’t make what he did or is doing okay.
The fact that he will break the home run record of one of the greatest players who have ever played this game is unforgivable and demeans the game of baseball. Just my opion but Bonds is pretty much worthless. I do not see any redeeming quality to him as a person.
May 9th, 2007 at 8:25 pm
Curt,
As a life-long Sox fan, I support everything you said about Bonds. If baseball is ever going to clean up, more players have to be willing to tell it the way it is. Bonds is a fraud, a cheater and a jerk. He took performance-enhancing drugs, never paid taxes on memorabilia-related income and cheated on his wife. That’s all fact, no matter what any deluded Giants fan or self-deluded sportswriter says to the contrary.
Don’t apolgize for telling the truth. That just allows cheaters and frauds to get away with their actions.
Dave.
May 9th, 2007 at 8:28 pm
maybe one of these days you’ll learn that when you have a hard time standing behind your own words, other people certainly won’t. want to tell the world all of baseball does sterroids? cool. tell congress the same thing. want to tell the world bonds is a bad guy? cool. don’t take it back the next day.
it’s absurd man. how is anyone supposed to take you seriously? maybe you should just keep your mouth shut.
May 9th, 2007 at 8:29 pm
curt you are a good baseball player,the redsox are playing good, they have like a 6 game lead over my great yankees,so why curt why would you make those mean comments,beleive it or not you went beyond baseball,you went beyond boston versus the yankees,you said bonds is a cheater,thats a stereotype of a black man,you said bonds cheated on his taxes,thats a stereotype of a black man,you said bonds cheated on his wife, thats a stereotype of a black man,but at least you apologized,like mr.richards he apologized,and mr.imus he also apologized,dont get me wrong i am not defending barry bonds,but i havent seen or read the article that shows he failed a steroid test,im just saying as a blackman and a big fan of baseball, specially the yankees,that curt your comments went beyond baseball……..go yankees!
May 9th, 2007 at 8:31 pm
Who got to you, Curt?
May 9th, 2007 at 8:31 pm
Curt-
It’s not so much what you said, or what you fell in your heart that has me at odds with you. I am frustrated that it is ok in our society to say something that may be incorrect, or based on speculation, but can be made “all better” by saying “I’m sorry”. I wish that it worked that way in reality. You can never take back what was said. Sometimes it is like what our parents taught us as children. “If you can’t say something nice, then don’t say anything at all”
May 9th, 2007 at 8:32 pm
Hey Curt, who edits the replies anyway, and decides whether to post them or not? I wrote what I believe was objectively a very thoughtful and thought-provoking reply earlier, to this post, and it didn’t seem to make the cut past the editor(s)? When I read some of the other stuff that passed muster, I have to wonder!? I did not use objectionable language. The only reason why I believe it may not have made the cut was due to my criticism of Gerry Callahan, as I gave an example of how he was arrogant and insensitive to a young caller on his show some time ago. It was related to the discussion for the reasons which I indicated in my reply, which I will not repeat here.
It is disappointing that your editor did not see it fit for print. Perhaps it could be resurrected? If not, this is my last post. Thank you.
May 9th, 2007 at 8:32 pm
It looks like this apology is genuine but it also looks like the anger in your original statements was genuine as well. I don’t know Barry Bonds personally but much of what appears to have happened in his case is that he has been singled out by the media and based on your comments perhaps some players as well. Curt, I realize this isn’t the sort of comment you can reply to given what’s already happened but I hope you start to think about why Bonds was singled out. It could be because he’s actually just a jerk and the media is right this time. It could be because he’s been so successful and it sucks that a guy whose talent was once celebrated has shown us on some level his success was tainted. Part of it probably has something to do with his race. Hell it’s probably some mashup of all of those things.
Yet think about it, when people are angry with Barry Bonds. They aren’t really just angry with Bonds because he cheated. They are angry at Bonds because he cheated and Rafael Palmeiro cheated and Juan Rincon cheated and bunch of no name guys that have been caught in testing phases cheated and Bonds is an easy scapegoat. So the question is, even if Barry Bonds is as bad of a guy as some people say, does he deserve to be scapegoated and badmouthed the way people like Curt have done to him constantly? After all, every day we celebrate other athletes who have given us evidence they are jerks too. Brett Myers beat his wife in public, Puckett also beat his wife, Gary Barnett coach of Colorado football has been accused of sexual harassment by a myriad of women, Tim Hardaway hates gay people, etc.
May 9th, 2007 at 8:33 pm
Say it ain’t so, Curt. Last night when I read the comments you made on WEEI, I said a cheer. Finally, finally someone in baseball was calling out Barry Bonds. Now you’re apologizing. For what? For being an upstanding person? For having ethics and morals? Bonds and his juiced-up run at Hank Aaron’s record has and will hurt the game. As you said yesterday, that’s sad. Stop apologizing already.
May 9th, 2007 at 8:40 pm
hey Schi… your career has been awesome…
and to be a 2 times World Series Yankee beater it’s Outstanding but…
As your acts speak for yourself… your mouth 2…
Barry is a Monster… Why don’t you talk about other cheaters… you may now some of them but may u be affraid to talk about…
Major League allowed… Bonds is the biggest Scape goat.
Hope to see u loose to the Yanks in the ALCS… if not congratulations, one more time… your game speaks loud for You… Let Barry Bonds Game Speaks for Himself.
May 9th, 2007 at 8:40 pm
Hey Curt - My apologies…Either I missed it earlier (I see that it is post #95) or it suddenly reappeared. My guess is that it was my fault as I should have triple checked before thinking your editors ditched it. Anyway, thanks.
[For those that don't what the heck I'm talking about, I had "complained" that a reply that I had written earlier today did not seem to make the board...but I think I just missed it. Knucklehead me!]
p.s. Is not the reply post by “Manny Ramirez” a howl!?
May 9th, 2007 at 8:45 pm
Curt,
I was not offended by what you said at all. I in fact aggreed with you, but in the end the apology was the right thing to do. I am a die-hard Sox fan and I admire you for your ability to play the game, as well as your personality. Although it is inevitable—Bonds will break Hank Aaron’s record, we should just focus on playing good baseball (which we have been doing so far). I am very impressed with our rotation: You and Beckett are on cruise control, Dice K is coming along nicely, Wake has been outstanding (he does not deserve those losses, he pitched very well, and Tavarez is pitching decently). Let’s just hope we can keep Bonds from advancing on the HR list when the Giants visits Fenway in June.
- Aashish
May 9th, 2007 at 8:48 pm
My name is Curt and I like to speak my mind.
I also one shining moment to myself that makes me believe I can do and say as I please. Let’s not forget all the home runs, all the losses, all the complaining, Randy single handedly winning me my first ring and all of the non 20 win seasons.
Disparraging comments I like to throw around… BIG bad Curty… like the time I shared a cab in SF with some players while playing for a NL team and talked openly about how some of the Giants pitching staff was “gay” (to insert a more PC word instead of the string of words I used in front of other people).
Or the fact that I have legitimized Jose Canseco because my big mouth has lied in front of congress and was repremanded, because I didn’t tell the truth… under oath. (Good for me!!!!) Or was it I just didn’t want to admit that my Dr. may have had me take steroids to fix my last injury…. (boy did I recover better, in between starts after)
Admitting you were given something by your trainer while, under oath and in secret, doesn’t necessarily constitute cheating… does it?
Last note, I like to use the media to tell stories about how tough I am, but that there is also nooooooooo way I will challenge #25 when he comes to town. I am such a tough guy that 4 fingers will get him to first, without me giving up a Moonshot over the Jimmy Fund.
I did say I’m very sorry; right?
May 9th, 2007 at 8:49 pm
Hey Curt -
FYI - your teammates even hate you.
May 9th, 2007 at 8:49 pm
curt my 6 yr old idolizes you and I support you all the way hopefully youll stay in boston but as far as bonds goes not only did he take steroids but he LIED about it so I dont blame you for what you said I agree but as a parent of someone who idolizes you I also was glad you apologized GO SOX
Tim from West Spfld
May 9th, 2007 at 8:52 pm
Curt Schilling - your insatiable need to self-promote is such a turn-off for so many people. Do you really need a ‘blog on top of all the other outlets you seek out in order to force all your opinions on everybody? Ugh, I’m so tired of you! What a windbag you are! Might part of your religion be to practice a little humility? How about pitching, and quietly appreciating and reflecting on your many accomplishments - to yourself? Would your past accomplishments and weekly achievements not be as meaningful to you without all the extra fanfare generated by you?
May 9th, 2007 at 8:52 pm
Mr. Schilling,
Thank you for your comments about Barry Bonds yesterday as well as your apology (I guess). Truth is, Bonds DID acknowledge that he took steroids. Maybe he didn’t have the legal mens rea of “knowingly” taking steroids, but he admitted to using the clear and the cream, thinking that they were flaxseed oil and some sort of lotion.
Ok, so maybe he didn’t KNOW they were steroids. But he took something. And since we now know that that something was the cream and the clear, which are in fact steroids, he has, by definition, used steroids, though perhaps unknowingly.
Nevertheless, I admire your ability to apologize for your indiscretion. Truth is-it probably wasn’t the wisest thing to say. And perhaps it wasn’t 100% accurate, but your apology, while appeasing those that seek political correctness over truth, was I’m sure, completely and totally sincere.
Thank you for your candor Mr. Schilling. May God Bless you now and always.
Sincerely in Christ,
Steven N. Necaster, J.D.
Regent University
School of Law
May 9th, 2007 at 8:52 pm
How come you didn’t post my comments???
Hit too close to home eh ?
Got you where you lived eh Curt ?
What a joke you are.
Like I said, STAY OUT OF THE POLITICAL ARENA IN MASSACHUSETTS !!!
May 9th, 2007 at 8:55 pm
Curt, If you get a chance to read this (which is probably a small chance), I think what you said was wrong only because you made a public reference to Barry’s personal issues (i.e cheating on his wife and his taxes), however, with that said your 100% right that hes a cheater and should have his soon to be records stripped from him. Hes an absolute discrace to the game, and the national media has completly backed away from calling him out on something we all know he did (and honestly, probably contiunes to do to this very day…) Not only is the whole thing shameful but its criminal…I don’t aggree with every opinion you make, but thankyou for having the balls on this to say what every other American seems to shy away from. Barry should be in jail, not playing baseball….
May 9th, 2007 at 8:55 pm
You suck Schilling. Do you have positive proof against Bonds?????????????
May 9th, 2007 at 8:57 pm
So should they not recognize any of your records because you faked a bloody sock????????
May 9th, 2007 at 8:59 pm
i agreed with the comments it is a disgrace to the game what is going on
May 9th, 2007 at 9:09 pm
You have a long history of shooting your mouth off before thinking. Just stick to pitching. Worry more about the Yankees instead of Barry Bonds. They’ve played their worse ball in April and only will get better. I agree with Francona, when you decide to run for office, then express your political opinions. Enough!
May 9th, 2007 at 9:09 pm
Yeah right Curt… Everyone has days and events, it’s too bad yours are all the time. I’m so tired of hearing your voice, and hearing your opinion on everything in this damn world. I try so damn hard to ignore it, but it’s hard not to hear it when it’s everywhere, especially living in New England. I’m am so tired of your BS. Why do you think everyone seems to care about your opinion?
Try something new, just for a change, KEEP IT TO YOURSELF!!! I’d tell you to retire, but then I’d just have to look forward to seeing you in politics, and personally, I think you would be the only person in this world that would be worse than Bush. Just retire and be like McGwire, go into hiding.
Sick and tired of you,
T. Kelly
Rhode Island
May 9th, 2007 at 9:18 pm
I think it’s important to get the facts right and not to misquote or infringe on the truth.
I wish more players would speak their mind instead of treating the MLB likes it’s an insider boy’s club where everything is always okay.
May 9th, 2007 at 9:25 pm
Media thirsts for any kind of controversy, especially from high profile people. Seems it does not matter whether the comments are right or wrong, just if they can make news from them. I was surprised to see your comments highlighted on ESPN. I had heard them earlier on WEEI and thought…..gee I agree with Schilling on that one, Bonds is cheating. I did think it a bit over the top do mention his troubles with his wife and taxes, but I did agree. Now seeing an apology here, I had to let you know your a man that at least cares enough to think about what he says after the fact. kudos and for rethinking your position and how it affected Bonds and his family, team and friends.
May 9th, 2007 at 9:28 pm
Yesterday when I read David Ortiz’s comments I thought to myself how could anyone in their right mind defend someone who cheated. Okay so he has never been caught and if he’s clean how come his friend and trainer Greg Anderson is still in prison for refusing to testify? What’s to hide? Also, anyone from the bay area should know that Bonds not only thumbs his nose to the media but the fans too. So don’t give that he’s persecuted and singled out rap because that’s far from the truth!
If he’s such a team player why then the two lockers with lazy boy and private big screen only for himself, personal security guards and private trainer other than the team’s (which is not the case now)? I’ll tell you why because his arrogance and ego are above everyone else! He won’t sign an autograph even if it means helping out a former Pittsburgh groundskeeper.
I understand if Terry told you to keep quiet but Curt I lost some respect for you by you doing an about face. I’m sure many here see that as positive quality and maybe it is, but I like to think that you showed more courage by speaking up the way you did.
Cheating with drugs is what is wrong with sports and today’s athletes because they forget they not only disrespect their sport but the fan as well.
May 9th, 2007 at 9:29 pm
Curt, We love you here in nh. Barry Bonds is a cheater in all aspects of his life, I am glad you apologized though. I am sure his poor wife didn’t need any more misery. Go soxs! And another thing, I am so glad that we did not get Clemens, we need more Christian men like you. God Bless
May 9th, 2007 at 9:30 pm
Curt,
Although I am a huge fan of you and a die hard Sox fan, I have to admot that you poke your nose into alot of issues that you need to stay out of. As a pitcher you are incredible with your preperation, determination, and work ethic. I just would enjoy you more if you would put a gag on while talking to the media. For someone that doesn’t communicate with the media you do a lot of talking to them. Please just pitch and stop bringing the limelight and bad publicity to your organization. I am still a fan oy you and most inportantly the game and the Sox. The best way to put this is shut up and pitch. Everything you do for charity makes you a better person. When you take two steps forward it seems like you take 4 back. Good luck with the rest of the year. If you need to vent email me insted of chatting with the media. Once a Red Sox always a Red Sox. We support you. Yankees #$%^
May 9th, 2007 at 9:34 pm
I HOPE HE HITS #756 OF YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
May 9th, 2007 at 9:37 pm
I’m glad Curt apologized (that doesn’t mean that I disagree with everything he said). I have always tried (emphasis on tried) to keep my mouth shut because I hate having to say “sorry”. It doesn’t always work.
But to all the folks that don’t seem to like Curt, his opinions or his blog…what are you doing here in the first place? If you don’t like it, take the page off your favorite listing.
It’s great to see the Sox at the top of the pile, Curt, and I hope you guys stay there. I loved that fact that you took 5 out of six from them and then you finally managed to get the better of those darned Jays.
Best wishes and I hope that you can keep getting those wins!!
May 9th, 2007 at 9:38 pm
Go Barry
May 9th, 2007 at 9:39 pm
Curt… Curt… Curt,
I was listening to the radio yesterday morning and When I heard what you said about Bonds, I knew right away that this was going to be a storm. I know you dont always have time to think before answering a question, but you just gotta know you dont talk about someone’s personal life (wife& taxes) like that on the radio. Not only that, you better than anyone else knows that the Media does not like youat all, they are waiting for you to make a statement like that so they can fly with it.
Well, I’m glad you apologized. The fact of the matter is, you guys are playing great baseball. It was sad listening to Tito this morning having to answer questions about what you said instead of talking about what Beckett did on the field last night. Concentrate on playing baseball, that’s what you are great at man. Sox nation is behind you all the way, just do what you do best, PITCH.
May 9th, 2007 at 9:41 pm
Curt, just wondering what your feelings about Mr. Bonds would be when the BoSox do not offer you a contract and you get offered a ridiculous amount of money to pitch for the Giants?
Also, what are your thoughts on ethnic cleansing, the federal deficit, Roe vs Wade and whether Sanjaya should have been voted off of American Idol?
Before you respond check the clock. Make sure it’s after 9AM and a bowl of Wheaties.
May 9th, 2007 at 9:45 pm
Curt:
You have been obviously infected with a serious case of “foot and mouth” thi season. How come you have been “mum” on the alleged steriod use by your pal Roger Clemens?
A refresher for your selective memory!
See Below:
In light of the redacted names from the Jason Grimsley affidavit hitting the papers, Roger Clemens entire career has been called into question. Clemens now find himself in the middle of the controversy alongside Barry Bonds, Mark McGwire and Jose Canseco.
As to whether or not Clemens is actually in the affidavit.
1. The LA Times reported that an anonymous source with access to the unedited version of the affidavit, let the newspaper view it, but didn’t provide a copy. The Times said a second source who had identified the other players provided additional details about the document. The report named Miguel Tejada, Jay Gibbons, and Brian Roberts as users of ‘anabolic steroids’ and Clemens and Andy Pettitte as users of ‘performance-enhancing drugs’ according to Grimsley.
2. The same Times report also said it was Clemens and Pettitte’s former strength and conditioning coach, Brian McNamee, who referred Grimsley to a source that supplied him with steroids, human growth hormone, and amphetamines when all three played in New York in 1999 and 2000. McNamee’s inclusion in the document has not really been disputed.
3. ESPN cited three sources when it reported that in June, the Orioles’ front office held separate meetings with Tejada, Gibbons and Roberts to inform the players that their names were rumored to be on the affidavit, and that they should all consult their lawyers. This corroborates at least the other half of the Times report. It stands to reason Clemens and Pettitte would have received the same warning.
4. ESPN’s Dan Patrick said he received a fax of the Grimsley affidavit in June from a previously reliable source. The copy had the redacted names written in. Patrick took the information to the ESPN baseball people, but they couldn’t corroborate the information and therefore didn’t publish a story. Now that multiple reports have confirmed Patrick’s source form June, he revealed on his radio show that Clemens was also on his copy of the affidavit.
5. Clemens seemed to know he was mentioned in the affidavit. As mentioned above he was likely warned by MLB officials when he responded with controlled aggression in answering questions about the report. He attacked Grimsley, even threatening to sue him if Clemens loses endorsements, but never really suggests the Times report implicating him is inaccurate in and of itself.
Circumstantial Evidence From Clemens’ Career
By age 29 Clemens had won two Cy Young Awards, finishing sixth place or better in the balloting six times in his first seven full seasons. He was one of if not the best pitcher in the game over that span. Things got harder in 1993.
From the Roger Clemens Bio at Baseball Library:
For various reasons, Clemens became merely mortal over the next four seasons (1993-1996). He spent two stints on the DL in 1993 and finished with a losing record for the first time, with a bloated 4.46 ERA. He bounced back somewhat in the strike-shortened 1994 season, ranking second in the league in ERA and strikeouts with five 10-strikeout performances during the season, but the Sox were fading as a power and Clemens failed to get adequate run support. The downward career trend continued in 1995 when he started the season on the DL. He managed to win 10 games, but once again saw his ERA balloon to 4.18.
It seemed on the surface that Clemens’ career was ending when he went only 10-13 in 1996. But he was distracted all season by ongoing debates with the front office about whether he would re-sign with the Red Sox and suffered from an appalling lack of run support.
At 33 years old, Clemens started the 1996 season 4-11. Had he continued that pace he would have finished the season 6-17. The effect of a 6-17 season on Clemens ensuing free-agency would have been drastic. Clemens would have seen a lot of one-year deals and likely some two-year deals only because of his reputation. But make no mistake any deal would have been filled with incentives and would likely have been a pay decrease. But after 3 2/3 mediocre seasons Clemens returned to Cy Young form.
Again from the Roger Clemens Bio:
In fact, over the second half of the season, Clemens was as dominant as he was at the turn of the decade. He was 6-2, 2.09 in his last 10 starts, and after the All-Star break struck out 123 men in 111 1/3 innings.
Clemens finished the season 10-13 and on December 13 signed a four-year $40 million free-agent contract with the Toronto Blue Jays. It was at this time Clemens started working with strength and conditioning coach Brian McNamee. Clemens continued his renaissance and dominance winning two consecutive Cy Young awards including the pitching triple crown in 1996 despite poor Blue Jays teams that finished last in the east in 1996 and third in 1997 (but still 26 games out). After the season, Clemens orchestrated a trade to the Yankees bringing along McNamee.
Jason Grimsley played in New York in 1999 and 2000. It was at this time Grimsley is said to have met and been referred to an amphetamine source by McNamee. From that source Grimsley reportedly acquired amphetamines, steroids and human growth hormone. While Grimsley has never referred anyone to that source, he said he was certain that ‘boatloads’ of other players have gotten drugs from the same source.
After years of working with Clemens and Andy Pettitte among others, in 2000 McNamee was hired by the Yankees as their strength and conditioning coach. When his contract was not renewed in 2002 the club gave no explanation. It is speculated the end of his tenure in New York was due to his being questioned in 2001 in connection with an alleged sexual assault in the pool at the Yankee team hotel in St Petersburg, Florida where police said the victim may have ingested GHB, a date-rape drug.
All that being said, Clemens was a smart pitcher with remarkable natural talent who worked very hard to keep in shape. He continued to thrive in 2004 when baseball started tested its players, and again in 2005 and 2006 when the more real threat of positive test results being revealed to the public (and the Hall of Fame voters) came into effect. We may never know, but it doesn’t look good.
Please shut up and focus on your pitching!!
May 9th, 2007 at 9:48 pm
Why are all you people kissing this guys ass? He ran his mouth off, I’d love to see BB sue the crap right out of him. Curt, you have your absolute right to your opinion as does everyone, but you need to be carefull where you share it. Baseball was ruined way before the steroid scandal. Your salaries are the true scandal. Millions of dollars to play game??? I refuse to support professional sports.
May 9th, 2007 at 9:49 pm
…and I’d like to apologize to Barry, his family, his friends, his mistresses, his steroid and human growth hormone suppliers, his crooked accountants, and most of all…to all the hard working wonderful people he knows intimately well at Balco…
May 9th, 2007 at 9:51 pm
There is never any true harm in ripping apart the carnal nature unless it is doing it for harm.
We expect “Bloody Captain Curt “PSYCHO Yankee Killer Quesque CE”
to shoot from the hip some times and speak the truth no matter what.
Nice to see you get IT about God moving thru Jesus in HIS children. When you can experience them that way, then you got something eternal, and intimate. POWER UP.
May 9th, 2007 at 9:52 pm
Curt..You are a man of integrity and conviction. No apology was needed for speaking the truth. You have an uncanny way of providing such obscure and interesting opinions; it leaves some people unsettled and some sitting with a smug smile on their faces and nodding “yes”…..
You wear your heart on your sleeve and are so passionate about your beliefs. Many find you hard to take because they aren’t used to hearing (or telling) the truth. Barry Bonds needs no apology from you…A man that is untrue to his family, friends, the law and baseball is a man with a small heart, no conscience and absolutely no morals. HE is the one that should be apologizing!!
Your candid opinions leave some listeners/readers aggravated…but for those who are as passionate about the truth, have a great respect for a man who has “stones” enough to “tell it like it is”. Thank you Curt for being so forthright and honest….in this media world, it is a treasure to have you bring your insight and opinions out in the open for everyone to hear.
May 9th, 2007 at 9:53 pm
Curt,
There needs to be more guys who speak out and change the baseball culture. There is too much political correctness these days and applaud you for saying what so many people “think” and talk about around the water cooler. Even MLB fining Tory Hunter for his champagne transgression and yet Bonds is making a mockery of the greatest record there is…Unfortunately there are other players probably on new untestable substances HGH and MLB is not looking into that.
p.s. Glad the Sox didn’t sign Clemens because I believe it would have been a great affront to you (not signing you for next year and yet offerring him 10 Mil for a 1/2 a season and he never brought us (RSN) a WS like you did at the poss expense of your health…Lastly, whatever you do please don’t go to the Dark Side no matter how much $$ they throw at you….Be yourself no matter what they say….
May 9th, 2007 at 9:55 pm
What a total Wuss.
There isn’t a doubt in my mind that Schillings original comments are exactly how he feels. Be a man and stand up and admit it. You always talk about the media and how the take little pride in their job, but aren’t you now doing the exact same thing?
You make comments you can’t prove or stand behind. You said he has admitted to taking steroids, which you can’t prove. Oh, and also cheating on his wife and the IRS. How would you prove those two? At least most of the media folks stand behind their accusations–you back down simply because of the circus it might create around your team. Pathetic. What a selfish, hypocritical, big mouth loser.
Go YANKEES!
May 9th, 2007 at 9:57 pm
Classy move with the apology, Curt.
While I agreed with everything you said (and for those who said he lied, “Google” is your friend) I did wonder why you would bring up “cheating on his wife”, especially when that is so rampant through baseball. It has nothing to do with the steroid issue and just brings to the forefront something we all know is there but choose not to deal with. (Since it seemingly doesn’t affect the game.)
Given how he feels about Boston, I’d venture to guess we never see Bonds at bat when the Giants are in town. But if we do, I hope he gets walked or plunked every times he steps up.
May 9th, 2007 at 9:58 pm
it’s rare in our society that people in general, don’t take the easy way out. Integrity; something that is seemingly extinct these days. May God bless you Schill, and those critics who want to harp negativity on you and yours, let them, they too will be judged by the same measuring stick that they judge others. I have opened my mouth many a times and had to eat crow and accept what i said because there was no excuse. Thanks man!
May 9th, 2007 at 9:58 pm
it’s easy for humans to form judgment. perhaps it’s from the countless generations and their striving for survival.
you are a mature man with many positive character traits. i’d like to think we are here to learn: we must be humble and admit to others our shortcomings. as a public person of national celebrity, your words are heard around the world, especially by sport fans. i am remarked by your honest words; and hope you have learned to draw the line between truth versus perceptions.
sometimes, the truth of events are never to be realized or known in this world or time. for example, gary thorne found his element of truth when he echoed a phrase rather than use research methods, conduct interviews, and arrive at reasonable conclusions. i went to school and graduated in the same class as gary: his remarks were immediately followed with apology and an honest explaination.
gary has an mba and jd in addition to his many years of sports reporting. he served in the military as an officer, and argued before the maine supreme court. gary has a powerful intellect and acumen in diverse fields of serious endeavor. i was shocked to hear of his comments about the bloody sock; and, knew his words spoke exactly what he thought, felt, and experienced.
as one of your fans, and someone who also speaks his thoughts clearly, i knew you would reach out, apologize, and attain peace with bonds and those who care for him. so, whether you are a tribal elder, a future hall-of-fame pitcher, or a renown sports announcer: our humanity must forgive others, least we lose our sense of divinity or purpose.
May 9th, 2007 at 9:59 pm
//There isn’t a doubt in my mind that Schillings original comments are exactly how he feels. Be a man and stand up and admit it.//
He never said his original comments weren’t how he felt. He said it wasn’t appropriate to say them publicly.
I can’t get over how many of you have such trouble with reading comprehension.
May 9th, 2007 at 10:00 pm
Being ‘way out here in Indiana,’ I of course have no idea what you said (and have no reason to do the research - doesn’t sound like your words came out right.)
Everyone makes mistakes, and everyone can choose to learn from them… or not. You always strive to learn and grow - so media or no media - it will all work out. Apologize and move on, but realize that this is bound to happen. It has definitely happened to Barry, repeatedly, so I’m sure he knows - as do all the other people trying to live their lives in the media fishbowl.
If you’ve been watching all of the gaffes made by presidential candidates lately, its obvious that anyone living in the constant glare of the spotlight is going to slip up occasionally, speak without thinking. You aren’t some slick, striving, ‘on message’ politician (thank God,) you are a pitcher. You’re also a Christian, and a nice guy - and of course, you’re human. You apologize and mean it. Not sure what else anyone could ask from you.
Since I am also not a morning person and can’t even imagine stringing a coherent sentence together before at least 10 am, is there any way you can change the time of this radio interview? Make em do it at night. If they want to hear your thoughts, believe me, they’ll reschedule you. You’re Curt Schilling, and they are your parasites - they need you to exist. (Wee! I just called the media ‘parasites!’ How liberating it is for someone like me to be able to say anything I want - and mean - with no repercussions whatsoever!)
May 9th, 2007 at 10:03 pm
More people died in Josh Hancock’s car than from using steroids. Where is the Curt Schilling rant about drinking and driving, which kills 17000 Americans each year? Why not rant about the loud silence in MLB, which depends on beer sponsorships for revenue? Why isn’t Mr. Schilling, or anybody else in MLB, talking about banning players and coaches from baseball if they’ve had a DUI or DWI? And turning back to Bonds, if he doesn’t deserve the record, then exactly which of his 745 HRs would you like to invalidate, Mr. Schilling?
May 9th, 2007 at 10:04 pm
If some of you negative people don’t like Curt and truly don’t care what he thinks, then why do you bother reading his blog?
May 9th, 2007 at 10:04 pm
You really are a jackass.
May 9th, 2007 at 10:07 pm
Curt,
How many of the blood sucking media members post these novel negitive posts? I love the fact that they can create these crazy names and hide behind a key board the same way they hide behind airwaves, or news papers. Losers!!
Jim
May 9th, 2007 at 10:09 pm
curt, i appreciate the fact that you say you should not have said what you did, but i must say i agree with what you said. i guess we might never get the proof for sure but we all know in our hearts he has used performance enhancing drugs….his own godfather, who’s record he will tarnish, is disgusted with him and refuses to recognise any of his accomplishments. i am proud that you wear a red sox uniform….it takes a man to admit he has done something wrong, even though i don’t think you were incorrect, you are a man of honor..
May 9th, 2007 at 10:14 pm
You have really shown your true colors. In 2002 you lent your voice to the Sports Illustrated article that blew the lid off of steroid use in MLB. Three years later you got before Congress and bravely toed the company line, saying the words that Don Feher and Bud Selig’s lawyers probably wrote for you.
In 2004 you stumped in Ohio for George W. Bush 48 hours after the Red Sox won their historic World Series. You used a team victory as a springboard for your own personal agenda. I looked forward to coming on this blog and having some intelligent political debates with you, but you just blew me and others off saying “you shouldn’t vote for someone because I tell you to”.
Now you backtrack on Barry Bonds. The man who a month from now will break the great Hank Aaron’s record by using steroids and becoming a huge comic book monster. You said it all yesterday on D and C, then bow down to the Red Sox or the Giants management today and issue and apology. For WHAT??? Barry Bonds is the one who should be apologizing for making a mockery out of one of baseball’s most sacred records.
Why even have this blog Curt? Granted your batter by batter accounts of your starts are fascinating to read. But don’t try and make yourself out to be this maverick athlete if you don’t have the balls to stand by what you say.
May 9th, 2007 at 10:22 pm
Thanks for being honest. I enjoy listening to your views. I have many of the same. My mother has ALS and she loves you. Thanks for helping shine light on this cause, Also thank Mike Timlin and all other people who help.
Frank McLaughlin
May 9th, 2007 at 10:23 pm
Dear Curt:
I’ve always admired you as a pitcher, a family man and a Christian; nothing has changed in my opinion.
By now if you haven’t learned already being a Christian in today’s world is a lonely, difficult walk. It reminds me of the college student who came home and went to church and as the pastor greeted him he said, ” The church has been praying for you son, how are you managing away at school with all the wild living going on?” The kid answered, ” Oh, that’s easy, I just don’t tell anyone I’m a Christian.”
Once you tell people you are a Christian, they don’t want to hear about Jesus and His wonderful gift of salvation on the cross ( Romans 10:9-10), but what they are waiting for is for you to slip up so they can remind you of your imperfections. Remember, Jesus said, ” Woe when all men speak well of you.
As a Christian I really didn’t have any problems when you spoke out as a major league baseball player that the emperor has no clothes on. I realize you got pressure from the powers to be but one of the things that makes you special is you tell the truth. Yes, the comments about Bonds running around on his wife ( Curt, 70% of the players can’t throw the first stone ( Jn:
were not needed, nor the issue of his tax problems. The way he’s going about breaking Aaron’s record is a sham.
What you did was allow fans to know that they are not crazy. By the way, where’s Glavine and Maddux and ARod? Don’t any of these players who never touched the stuff realize that a whole generation of players are being painted by this brush?
Here’s the main problem with your apology: 1 John 1:9 reads: If we confess our sins he(God) is faithful and just to forgive us of all unrighteousness. Here’s the problem: Bonds never repented. Bonds is still in denial. Your problem isn’t what you said, your problem is the other people who should be saying something and are not. Jesus was not interested in winning friends and influencing people and neither should you be. Obviously, Major League baseball and the Sox got to you to try and quiet the storm. Whether you said anything or not Curt, people aren’t stupid and it only neuters MLB players who don’t have the stones to take a stand.
As a Christian I know it’s difficult to know when to speak up and when to turtle. The book of James says to be slow to speak, quick to listen, slow to anger. There will be times in your life as a Christian when you may have to take some arrows but that’s ok if your motive is pure and the Lord is glorified.
There was an old preacher in England who preached Christ every Sunday. One Sunday the officials came to him and told him if he kept preaching Christ he would be thrown in jail. The preachers deacons came to him and begged him to stop preaching Christ, but the following Sunday the old man preached Christ as bold as ever. After the service he was arrested, beaten and dragged off to prison. His deacons came to see him and one said, ” I told you to stop preaching Christ. Why you are in jail when you should be out?” The old preacher looked through the bars, wiped his bloody brow and said, ” why are you out of prison when you should be in?”
The question isn’t how can you come out and say these things about Bonds; rather, why isn’t anyone else in MLB saying anything?
Last point: If what you said was so bad and so wrong, ask the people in MLB management why Hank Aaron will not be around to see his record broken? Don’t drink the kool-aide, Curt. The emperor has no clothes on and only the suits in MLB are stupid enough to think no one notices.
In Christ you must stand,
Romans10
May 9th, 2007 at 10:28 pm
CURT! Stop apologizing!
You speak the truth and that is how you feel! Why do we need everyone to be so touchy and guarded. The fact is we all know Barry lied (to someone) about all the things you mentioned. Apologizing does nothing, ask Imus…
May 9th, 2007 at 10:32 pm
why dont u stop running ur mouth all the time and worry about baseball… and next time get ur facts sraight before u start pissing everybody off. ur probaly just mad that the redsox rnt gona sign u next year and ur turning into a has been. i hope that on june 15th barry breaks the record on the very first pitch from u. ithink u would be at a loss for words (for the first time in ur life) if that happened
May 9th, 2007 at 10:37 pm
Dear Mr. Schilling,
I am personally offended by your decision to rake the good name of a baseball legend for publicity purposes. My advice to you sir, is to work on matters in your own backyard, and not concern yourself with what is happening on the other side of the country.
May I remind you that you serve the interests of the good fans of Boston, and not the rest of the nation.
Your comments alleging Bonds is an adulterer who cheats the federal government is a blatantly stereotypical portrayal of the black athlete, which has set your sport back at least 3,000 years.
The fact is, when Bonds surpasses the all time home run record of 4,395 home runs, held by the Negro League legend Josh Gibson, he will stand alone as the all-time home run king.
Sincerely,
Barack Obama
May 9th, 2007 at 10:48 pm
Curt,
Hold your head up! You had the courage to speak what most American’s feel about the cheater Bonds. It is truly a shame that someone with his character will break a record that means so much. He is a black eye on baseball that should never be.
Not a Red Sox fan, but keep going strong!
R. Baker
May 9th, 2007 at 10:54 pm
Mr Schilling,
yes i am a yankee fan and it hurts me to post on your blog since how much you hate the yankees, I have never seen someone in the public view like yourself say the things you say that a normal everyday baseball fan thinks all the time. Yeh the clemens thing with him not traveling breaks everything the yankees stand for… and hopefully he will travel with the team because of all the flack he got for it. and this bonds thing which everyone has been beating around…. your right, he did cheat on all these things, no need to be politically correct and “apologize” your curt schilling you never were politcally correct because you dont have to be. Keep doing what your doing politically, it really is helping the sport and giving the fans a voice (thats not sarcasm) I’m also sorry to say that the yanks will be back and it shall be an interesting strech with the yanks once they get their pitching aligned….. i hate you so much but i respect you… hopefully you can win the al east sometimes soon (theres the sarcasm)
May 9th, 2007 at 11:04 pm
It’s ashame that you have that much time on your hands to bad mouth a fellow baseball player. It’s also ashame that you chose to speak out about this particular player. You should have kept your comments to yourself but because this country has freedom of speech, you took the liberty to voice your opinion.
I am just wondering what skeletons you have in your closet and are afraid that one day they will come out. Now it is true that Mr. Bonds is under a watchful eye but how many other players have or should have their lives put out in the open for the rest of the world to scrutinize? I can respect you for apologizing but next time think before you speak.
May 9th, 2007 at 11:06 pm
Though Curt should be applauded for apologizing, not because it may have hurt that disgrace to the game, but for the ripple effect on the Sox and Bonds’ family.
Curt’s words were right on, and i wish more so called big leaguers would come out and say that Bonds should be banned before this real home run record falls to such a fake and dishonest “player”
Frankly I cannot understand why every pitcher who cares about the game doesn’t simply throw high and inside on this fraud! Chin music on every pitch, so what if every pitcher gets thrown from the game. They should stand up for the real record holders. If this record falls into the hands of this bum, then it renders it meaningless -like the season home run record is now- a joke.
Perhaps Curt should have said it a different way, but more and more honest players need to speak up, because this great game appears to have been reduced to staged entertainment -a la the WWE -great professional athletes participating in games that we as fans cannot truly trust the integrity of the outcome. How many games were tainted by this ballplayer’s actions? How many honest pitcher’s stats and records were affected forever by whatever this man may have put into his body for performance enhancement? “May” certainly is the key word here, but as baseball fans, real fans who care about the history of the game we love, we cannot ever feel the same again about baseball. If and when it may be proven that these stats came by way of cheating, then all records need be expunged forever from the record books. Only that extreme step will restore our faith in this great game.
It is funny how many younger fans, in their twenties and below, don’t care how some of these “alledged” drug users came by their inflated stats. These are the same people who don’t mind paying hundreds of dollars to see so called singing stars lip sync at a “live” concert! Something to think about…
May 9th, 2007 at 11:17 pm
Curt, first time on your website, long time victim of your endless media nonsense. I’d be interested to know, since you’re so sorry for your Roger Clemens comments and you’re so sorry for your Barry Bonds comments, have you called either of them? Have you called their families? Have you reached out in any way to anyone involved in any of this without doing it through the media so that you can get some sort of exposure from it.
First you make the comment, then you retract it, then you apologize. I think we’re going on day three or four of Curt Schilling media week. You have outdone the worst media whore of recent Red Sox history, Johnny Damon, and that’s saying something.
May 9th, 2007 at 11:17 pm
Curt,
At the end of the day, you said what you said and in most minds you have made good on what happened. Some of these morons are going to say whatever they want to see if you will respond. Keep doing your thing. I think that if nothing else, you showed some of these people that baseball players are human. I think Manny said it best when he said it’s time to turn the page!
May 9th, 2007 at 11:20 pm
Curt — I find it ironic that a fellow with the lofty self-opinion you enjoy would feel it necessary to callout a similarly constituted self-promoter. And to take on his personal life — adultery and tax cheating — really boggles the mind. How about sharing us your “road stories” — before and after you married your lovely spouse. And those of your fellow teammates. Seriously, I’m sure it’s all wholesome fun with Bosox Roadies — boy scouts all.
Embarrassing, juvenile and not something a BS apology makes go away. You’ve tainted your own legacy in exactly the same direction that Senor Bonds has followed. And that’s pretty damn ironic.
As for the “Tragedy of Bonds” — maybe Boston fans ought think back a bit on real tragedy in sports … Len Bias, June 19, 1986: that’s a tragedy. Rae Carruth shooting and murdering his pregnant ex-girlfriends: that’s a tragedy. Bonds and steroids: that’s just sports journalism titilation gone 24×7. BFD.
May 9th, 2007 at 11:22 pm
Curt, I’m not gonna lie. Throughout my entire life of watching baseball, I have built a strong dislike towards you despite my respect for you as a pitcher. When I first heard your comments you used on the radio courtesy of ESPN, I was in shock that you would say something about another man’s personal life in the fashion you did. It disgusted me. I would like to say thank you for coming out and admitting your mistake and appologizing. It makes me respect you a little bit more and I am eager to see Barry’s reaction. Good move by you. Thanks.
May 9th, 2007 at 11:33 pm
Curt,
First I would like to say that it takes a noble man to own up to their mistakes, so for what it’s worth, I’m glad that you did.
Personally, from knowing the person that you are, you never hesitate to say what’s on your mind and be as upfront towards the public and the media, and that is a respectful thing. I will always hold you in that regard and not think less of you for what you said. Like you said, you’re only human and you make more than your share of mistakes.
I don’t doubt that your opinion is genuine and this is how you strongly feel. Yet I do agree that you crossed a line with what you said. All of us have opinions about one thing or another and we only let a few people into our own little worlds. We can’t disclose everything to everyone 24/7. And seeing the postings on this one topic, you’re not alone on your opinion.
I think that in the long run, this will pass over quickly enough. People will continue to make accusations and hover question marks over Barry Bonds’ head, so rest assure, you are neither the first nor the last person to do so. And knowing the professional that you are, this will roll over you and the team soon enough. Thank you for the apology and good luck on your next start.
dmike
May 9th, 2007 at 11:38 pm
I’d like to know when you’re going to apologize for endorsing George W. Bush.
May 9th, 2007 at 11:49 pm
For the record, once and for all- Schilling speaketh the truth. Bonds cheated on his taxes and admitted to drug use- just read the article below! These are facts people.. FACTS. Facts in BLACK & WHITE! As far as the cheating on the wife part, I am glad that you apologized, even if it was proven true.
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/sfgate/detail?blogid=18&entry_id=7048
This is the first of many articles when you google- Bonds Irs evasion. Check it out!
I hope all fans of Baseball will boo bARROGANCE BOOOnds when he gets to your park. He has made a mockery of a beloved sport that we all grew up loving. He has ruined the stats that we craved to read every morning in the paper (now immediately online). Granted he is not the only one, but seems to be the one that benefited the most. And as far as being a race issue, as convenient as it is be to be waving that card… not so. I also think McGwire et al, should have their “record stats” expunged.
May 9th, 2007 at 11:51 pm
You can’t apologize to someone without contacting them directly. That’s not an apology. You need to man up and apologize directly, not through a”blog”.
May 9th, 2007 at 11:57 pm
Everybody screws up once in awhile. Curt did. He did the adult thing and apologized. The right thing to do. It’s over.
He’s rethinking an 830AM interview. I would, too. I work second shift, too, and you wouldn’t catch me dead, awake at 830AM.
Unless Bonds comes to the plate against Curt with bases loaded and no outs, it’s over. Then, it’s mano a mano. Be interesting to see how that plays out.
Polar Bear
May 10th, 2007 at 12:05 am
It is not like you are some rookie who doesn’t know when to shut up. You are a seasoned veteran. 40 years old going on retirement. You should know better. Apology not accepted.
Tommy
May 10th, 2007 at 12:08 am
mr. schilling, you are weak. keep your personal opinions on other players to your boring dinner table banter. counting down the days until you retire…
i would never want to be on a sinking ship with you cause i know you would only think of yourself.
May 10th, 2007 at 12:16 am
Curt,
Meaningless or not, your comments will certainly have an impact. We all understand that you are an intelligent guy, but at some point, you may have to restrain yourself. Each of us live in a world where what we say makes a difference on a professional, and more importantly, personal level. Always good to see a retraction of something that many see as a baseless (although, I entirely agree with you) comment. Be professional. Simple as that. One of the critical elements of being a “bright guy” is knowing what counts, and where. Do you want to be Tim Robbins or Richard Gere? A mere blow hard who is willing to wade in on anything? Your getting there. Fast.
Note, I respect your opinion, but at some point you have to accept that you are in the public eye, and you might, that is might, not have a better understanding concerning certain issues and events. Throw first pitch strikes, do your job. Thanks in advance.
Dr. Matthew Ryan
May 10th, 2007 at 12:20 am
Curt, As a fellow Christian be reminded you will be judged as you judge others. Your a great pitcher. Keep yourself beyond reproach and stick to talking about yourself, the Sox and the game. Don’t shoot your mouth off for something you will be held accoutable for eternity. Praise Him!
May 10th, 2007 at 12:21 am
Curt,
You are the pot. Canseco, Bonds and everyone else like them are the kettle.
Your ego is out of control. You are a hypocrite.
I’ve never posted on one of these things but your utter hubris made me sign up and at least post somewhere that you might see. What you said is ill informed nonsense. Think before you speak. Practice the golden rule.
Be glad that you don’t have to get in the box. Even Big Papi would put one in your ear. Don’t think he wouldn’t.
May 10th, 2007 at 12:26 am
Who cares about baseball right now?!
The NHL playoffs are going on!! Oh yeah, that’s right… no one knows, because the NHL and Gary Bettman has put them on TV on a channel no one gets or has heard of… VS.
Time to get rid of Bettman bring the NHL back to the masses!!
http://www.FireBettman.com
May 10th, 2007 at 12:33 am
Curt,
Great work so far this week. I’m thinking tomorrow you should come out and completely and absolutely reject the apology you just issued on Thursday to buy yourself another few days in the media spotlight. Not that you’re trying to do that. Or that you ever would do that. Thats not what I’m implying. At all.
Covering my head with a towel in a good teammate sort of way,
Mister D.
May 10th, 2007 at 12:34 am
Curt,
If I may be so familiar. It’s extremely disenfranchising to see you wade into yet another argument that is below yourself, and meaningless to Red Sox fans. We all understand that you are a “bright guy,” yet you are quickly entering the realm of Tim Robbins and Richard Gere. While many may agree with your assertions (myself included), why must you consistently comment on virtually everything? Personally, I don’t care what you think, although I enjoy your more reflective thoughts. Why discuss it? It can only reflect poorly upon yourself, especially when speculation is at hand. Most of us live, and work, in a world which requires intimate knowledge of a subject before we comment. As a historian, I couldn’t even begin to make the statements which you consistently choose to make, without severe consequences. Unfortunately for most of us, a mere “retraction” doesn’t suffice. All I can ask is that you throw first pitch strikes (and get that DeJesus out) and NOT give us your polling info.
Regards,
Matt Ryan
North Carolina State University
May 10th, 2007 at 12:45 am
Sorry about posting twice.
May 10th, 2007 at 12:51 am
Why all the flap?
You’re correct.
Here is a guy who had all the potential in the world; but that wasn’t good enough…he had to cheat. You want evidence? Look at before and after pictures!
I think it is a shame this freak of pharmacology is on the brink of breaking baseball’s most sacred record….a record (honestly and proudly) held by a man under six feet tall and under 185 pounds but blessed with magic wrists and class and dignity and a love and honor for the game……the GAME.
Bonds may have the enhanced wrists bus is sorely missing the last 4 components.
May 10th, 2007 at 12:55 am
Wait! An idea! How about adding a T-Shirt to your collection entitled “GAG ORDER-No COMMENT” with your photo?
May 10th, 2007 at 12:57 am
Curt - now that you have officially entered puberty, I can make you a great deal on red dye. I am quite sure you have run out of supplies - maybe this is a good time to stock up - and show the world what a courageous pitcher you are. Maybe that is what the media wants to see - another blood stained (wink, wink … or shall we say red stained) sock.
May 10th, 2007 at 1:18 am
Hate the game, not the player. How many pitchers that served up those home run pitches were on the juice. Hats of to you, Barry. You have been fun to watch. Schilling….when is the last time youve been tested?
May 10th, 2007 at 1:24 am
you better apologize, you’re gonna face Bonds this year, he’ll take you deep….twice loser
May 10th, 2007 at 1:24 am
You may be outspoken, but you speak the truth and unfortunately the truth hurts sometimes (especially to those who are not true to themselves). I think Barry Bonds deserves to hear everything you said about him - “Oh what a tangled web we weave when at first we practice to deceive.” My ultimate wish for Barry Bonds is that he will hit #743 and blow out his knee while running around the bases, thereby ending his baseball career and can never be equated with Hank Aaron, only able to bask in “what could have been.” So close, yet so far…
May 10th, 2007 at 1:30 am
Remember Curt, It’s better to keep your mouth shut and be thought of as a fool, than to open your mouth and remove any doubt. Something you’re very good at.
May 10th, 2007 at 1:32 am
First off i would say, why don’t you keep your comments to yourself about other peoples personal lives. I’m sure your an angel and never done anything wrong..hmm little spit on the ball maybe.
Second for the idiots who say Barry admitted to using steriods please read the context… he said he Unknowingly was given steroids. That in itself is not an admission of guilt. Has me made mistakes in his personal life….yes, but come on you pious people who hasn’t made mistakes in life. Sports players are only human beings and not super hero’s as you all make them out to be.
As for the people who say Barry is a fraud and cheated the game, you obviously do not watch sports. Barry was a great hitter before the supposed “steroids” and I say supposed because WE were not there if or when it happened. If steroids made you that great of a hitter then you would see more of it. yes, they may have helped his health and performance, but no player except Barry has ever won a batting title while leading the league in OBP, walks, Int. walks, slugging %, and so forth.
I have always respected your pitching, but reflect on your own life before you smear others. Barry made his mistakes with his family and I’m sure he answered for it, but do you have to smack his family as well? what right do you have to do it? Your a ballplayer and nothing more.
I’m not a big barry fan, but I’m tired of all these people aka fans, players, media who put themselves above another person who makes mistakes. Look into your own life first people. Fans are what create the need for more runs, hits, homeruns, and so forth… we ask for it, demand it… so we are just as much to blame as anyone.
May 10th, 2007 at 1:38 am
Curt:
Because I am SURE you are taking the advice of an anonymous commentator. . . .
1. Be kind to Tito.
2. Did the media people on ESPN–”Around the Horn” and “Jim Rome is Burning”–though JR is on vacation so do not blame him–apologize for the claims you faked the sock?
No?
“Two wrongs don’t make a right of course,” but thanks for being the better man.
Bonds? I am more appalled that some of the “talking heads” still pretend that there is no evidence regarding steroids.
Anyways . . . congrats to Dice-K for a wonderful win! Gokurosama!! Congrats to the Sox Bats that did well!!
–J.D.
May 10th, 2007 at 1:39 am
You crack me up… You trashed some hockey/baseball announcer for not having his facts straight then you run your mouth with the WRONG facts. What does that make you? There is a word for it… Moving on, why do you feel the need to bash the media when you are a part of it (and part of the problem)? I don’t read your blog I think your a self serving @$$ but when heard you gave an “apology” here I had to come here and let you know how I feel.
May 10th, 2007 at 1:42 am
you are pathetic. i used to be a huge fan of yours but it seems like you are a huge let down. i think you should stay away from the media because it seems like you keep on making more of a fool of yourself. whether its you forcing your beliefs in politics or you betting people to prove the blood in your sock you never win mr schilling. you were my favorite pitcher back when you were in philly and i was very happy to see you and randy win a world series with the diamondbacks. but now you act like a big shot and cant keep your name out of headlines youve put shame to your name. im sorry but youve lost a fan.
May 10th, 2007 at 2:18 am
We live in a society that wants the truth and then cries about it when they hear it. I understand why you had to apologize, but I still agree with what you said. Hes cheating the game and getting away with it. He knows it, the world knows it, yet we still cover him. Hes a fraud.
May 10th, 2007 at 3:30 am
Stop the insanity! I had planned on starting my own blog with my experience growing up a Red Sox fan. Not just a fan but a true FANATIC! Because of all that has transpired in the past few weeks, I have no idea where to begin. I wanted to start with my childhood memories and the 75 World Series! Ed Armbrister and the bunt. Yaz, Rice, Lynn, Evans, Burleson, Fisk, Rico, El Tiante, Miller, Doyle, Carbo, etc. Where do I start?
Curt Schilling. Hmmmm… It’s hard to put this in perspective without starting at the beginning… in Utero if you will. I have been an AVID Red Sox fan pretty much since birth. I do mean AVID! I, Like Schilling, have recently celebrated my 40th b-day. My first memories really start with the 75 season. I had pictures from newspaper clippings, sports mags, baseball cards, etc all over my walls. I also remember a full team set of pictures of the above players put out by Star Market at the time. Free head shots of the players with a blue background that you could pick up at the front of the store when you were done shopping. I know I took dozens and dozens of extras-wish I still had them. I also had a huge piece of cardboard tacked to the back of my door. I had intersecting lines drawn with rulers and markers. I had all the columns set up for stats and used chalk and a face cloth to change them after every at bat. I brought my radio and earplugs everywhere. Everywhere! I refused to miss an AB and Ch 38 didn’t televise a lot of the games back then. Even when they did the reception was not that great. Ch 6 carried a few games, games I could see clearly on my 9″ B&W set. Can’t complain, not bad for a 9 year old. I would bring the radio and some paper everywhere so I could record all the stats. Computers would have made life easier then. I wanted up to date stats at all time. Yeah, okay- GEEK! Yup and proud of it. I loved my Sox!
I soon discovered a game called Strat-O-Matic Baseball- out of Glenn Head NY. Saw an ad in the back of one of the sports mags just before my 12th B-day. Mom was asking what I wanted and I couldn’t decide between that or Bat-Away. From what I remember (other than the catchy name) Bat-Away was a plastic arm on a stand that you would put wiffle balls into and it would throw it at you at spaced intervals. I got Bat-Away @13. Strat-O @12. I remember when I first got the game in the mail. It came with a board, 3 6-sided dice, one white and 2 yellow I believe, 2 sets of orange cards numbered 1-20 that you had to rip from a corrugated card stock, charts, player markers etc. The biggest part were a huge amount of player cards. Each player had a card of their own with all their stats and 3 columns of “results” for the dice rolls. (Ok so now I sound like a commercial for Strat-O- but it is the greatest game ever for stat geeks!)
Within hours after receiving it in the mail, I realized it was my parents bowling night. We were soon off, me carrying my white box with all my fresh cards and dice, etc. I was hooked as soon as I read the directions and played my first game. I played 3 games before going home that night, then prob 5 more before bed. It allowed me to be the manager and decide when to bunt, pinch hit, bring the reliever in, set the line-ups etc. The cards reflected as accurately as possible the actual attributes of the players. So began what is now more than 28 years with this game. I have set up leagues with my girlfriend (now wife), bro-in-laws, neighbors, etc. Thousand and thousands of games under my belt. All this to explain how much baseball statistics have influenced me and I’m sure so many millions of others. You don’t go through life with this kind of baseball affection without an appreciation of the integrity of the numbers in baseball. Yeah, you know where this is going doncha?!?
Okay, back to Schilling for a minute. This has been a very busy 2 weeks for him. First with “Sockgate”. Other than the media making comments that Schilling was blogging, Thorne’s comment was the first “wild-fire” that spread across the media putting Schill in the real lime light this year. Schills fault- no way! Second came the Clemens announcement. Now I love the Rocket-minority in this market I know. But Schill was asked about the Yankees new employee. He said exactly what he has said all along. Exactly! He would have loved to have had him here. Did they need him- No. Could he do anything about it- NO. Should have been the end of it. But NOOoooo. Raggedy Andy has to go and purposely take one sentence out of context and use that as the only quote to suit his purpose and add fuel to a personal “wild-fire” he has with Schill and basically the entire Red Sox Nation. Schills fault- absolutely NOT! Even yesterday Dan Shaughnessy aka Raggedy Andy aka CHB in 1 paragraph threw 4 Sox players under the bus:
“Manny Ramírez and — to a lesser degree — David Ortiz have elevated watching their home runs to an art form. Good thing Bob Gibson is not still around. In the old days, hurlers did not take kindly to being shown up by hitters admiring their majestic blasts. Bet Brendan Donnelly and Julian Tavarez wouldn’t stand for it, but the majority of AL hurlers seem OK with being embarrassed by the Sox sluggers.”
This is disgraceful for a BOSTON sports reporter. Maybe we should boycott the Globes pre-game show until he is shown the door. There have been far too many instances of him supposedly speaking for RS Nation about how we hate x and y either players or things that are happening to or with the team. Ya know what Dan. Time for you to Shut up! You purposely misreport and omit from your work- no ethics involved. We don’t need ya to talk for us Danny Boy. We can do it for ourselves now. We may even let you be the first casualty of our voice. Since you know what the Nation is thinking- you could leave on your own. Then he goes on to pick on Boston’s parking fees. Time to come out of the closet Dan, you Yankee fan and fess up- what do the Yankees charge for parking? I seriously don’t know the answer to that but would think its at least Fenway prices.
Now onto the Bonds issue, the only issue of Schills own doing. If you can call it that. He was asked a question and answered it. I am glad Schill apologized. I am glad Schill said what he did in the first place. Bonds IS an Arrogant Bastard. He is a cheater. He is a liar. He is a user of performance enhancing substances. Period. Want proof? Google him. Here, I’ll help: http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=barry+bonds+irs+evasion . Click on any of the links. I am happy that an apology went out to Bonds’ family. You know the majority of the fans are hoping Bonds does the right thing and comes up with a career ending injury (in his head, maybe a fake bloody kneecap or something- no real harm is wished on him). You have to Boo Mr B-Arrogance BOOnds whenever he is in your park. Make him understand how sacred our numbers are. This is not a Black vs. White issue! Please stop with that nonsense! I will say the same thing about Palmeiro, Giambi, McGwire, whomever! Anyone- ANYONE! should have their records erased.
As I said before I am a Red Sox Fanatic. Now all that being said, I do not agree with everything Schilling says and does. 2004, a case in point. Sox had just lost game 3 by a 19-8 score. I was on my way to work the next morning and on the Score or EEI, I don’t remember which, one of the host said in effect: “I hope they lose this next game. They always pull on our heartstrings and give us the appearance they have a chance. They are done!” Not the exact quote I am sure, but that was 2 1/2 years ago- nobody should have to remember what was said back then- right Thorne? Anyway- I was livid. I was foaming at the mouth. How can you call yourself a fan? It ain’t ova till it’s ova! I didn’t have my cell on me and I was screaming in my car at the radio- yeah a geek and an idiot (but what a time to be an Idiot!!!). I was spewing that he shouldn’t be allowed to call himself a fan. He shouldn’t be able to watch any of the World Series when the Sox made it. As a matter of fact when they do make it to the Series you will have to get me 4 tickets for each game- of course I would not have to reciprocate if they didn’t win- they were down 3 games to 0! I really thought it was sac religious to say the least. I got to work and had to dig right in so no time to call the station and vent. I did get to vent to my co-workers but they all thought I was nuts. I actually told them that the Sox would win- I basically was going to will it to happen I thought (okay, no I was not actually off my rocker-was I??? well maybe). Go ahead ask them - hence the TruBelieva name! I ranted all day. “All they have to do is win tonight. Don’t you think they can win one game?” Invariably the answer was “yes… but” No buts- all they gotta do is win this 1 game. I even tried to bet with a coworker who was a Yankee fan- He told me I was psychotic. I wanted to bet $20 on game 4 - but double or nothing for the rest of the series. I wish he had taken me up on that one. But I was truly upset that a local host would say such a thing.
Fast forward to the win. Not only the Yankees, although when they finished them off I felt like I was shot with novocain throughout my whole body and brain. I can’t explain it -just felt numb. But anyway, what happens right after the Series is over? I hear in not-so many words “Curt, you just won the World Series and broke a 86 yr curse… whatcha going to do now?” Then a heard words to make me cringe. “I’m gunna vote for Bush!” Now I don’t consider myself a Dem. or Rep. but that’s not what I need to hear right now. I wanna hear how the kids are going to enjoy Magic Mountain. Now it isn’t because he was in favor of Bush and I wasn’t (although I have to admit I wasn’t and aren’t). It was for the same reason I will not support or see anything Susan Sarandon and Tim, her boyfriend or whatever does again. I agreed with her to be honest. I didn’t want to be in this war. But they were speaking up right after we entered the war. Her actions were not going to do anything but show a divided front to any potential allies. I hate when celebs think they can sway us, the gullible people into their way of thinking just because they are famous. I have since read and accepted an explanation from Schilling about his remarks.
I also want to rip into all the so-called fans that start with all the negativity so early in the season. I don’t think 5 games went by and there were all these complaints about the light-hitting position players (although Manny seemed to have earned a pass). These guys are playing their guts out and they don’t need to hear or read that all the fans are against them already. I was so glad that each and every one of them has since been able to string at least a few good games together, including Tavarez. If you noticed they seemed to have all clapped so hard for themselves as they rounded the bases or drove in the important runs. In a way to stick it to the non-believers amoungst us but also the pure joy in their faces, namely Pena with the homer, but also Coco and Dustin. What a great team. Granted they are not perfect, but sit back and enjoy the ride this team is giving us! See Schill, some of us common fans “Get it”.
On an even more serious note, I also want to thank Schilling for letting me put my nieces web site on his blog. She is 4 now, but at 2 was diagnosed with ALL Leukemia. She has had numerous operations, etc. I asked Red Sox Nation as well as Curt to please say a few hellos to her in her guest book. Her site went from approx. 40 hits to now over 600 with about 33 (including Schilling- yeah thank you!) actually leaving encouraging messages for her. I was wondering if there was a way for you to add a link on your page so that we could have all the kids from SCHILL Nation listed. I have taken it upon myself to list the 3 that I have previously seen in different parts of your blog here. If you would like to leave her a note please do. She loves it when her mother reads them to her. Also if you do leave a note, please notate what state/country you are from. We are going to work on a map project with her to document where the people are from. Her site is: http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/hannahw There was also another person who posted that a family member 9? year old Jacob, a Yankee fan outta place in a Boston hospital needed some kind words. His site is: http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/jacobfroman Lastly there was the now famous 4petesake shoe deal. The St. Louis Card fan Peter Despain. His site is: http://www.peterdespain.com/ It would be great if everyone could just drop a little cheer into their lives.
May 10th, 2007 at 3:38 am
CURT you said what many others wanted to say, thats what you said thats how you feel I think Pete Rose is the greatest player ever. but somehow its okay to ban him for gambling and never on his team but its not ok to take action against drug users and people who have to cheat to get ahead… where is this right?
you said what you needed to say, stay with it and dont back down. bonds will never be a better man than Hank Aaron and we all know why. just like Mcguire and Sosa. all 3 Sosa Mcguire and Bonds have 1 thing in common. they could not do what they did, without illegal steroids.. so I agree with what you said. and I respect you for saying what needed to be said.
Robert
May 10th, 2007 at 3:39 am
I have no idea why one would have to apologize for stating the obvious about Bonds. His record will be fake and his character is flawed. He will never be a Hank Aaron nor will anyone respect his numbers. The game should be played straight - by everyone. I don’t care what he does with his personal life, it’s the steroids that are an absolutely flawed concept. People will never respect cheaters in any form.
May 10th, 2007 at 3:41 am
Curt, I hope you don’t spend time reading all this garbage.
May 10th, 2007 at 3:43 am
Don’t ever apologize for telling the truth.
I once heard an interview with Laurie David. She had, for the first time, recently completed a speaking engagement on the effects of Global Warming. She immediately received threats and very insulting remarks from all corners. She was very distraught by this, and was ready to give up the life of activism forever.
Arianna Huffington took her aside and she told her that this was good. That these sorts of reactions meant that she was saying and doing the right thing. This meant that she was making a difference, which scared people.
Don’t be afraid to say what everyone else in MLB is afraid to say. Speak the truth and don’t apologize for it. What is the worst your manager can do to you if he doesn’t like it? He’s not going to bench you, demote you, or fine you.
This is the United States of America, and you are entitled to say whatever you want to say. It is when people are afraid to speak when severe problems occur, such as segregation and illegal wars. The American people are behind you on this 100%, and it is refreshing to see someone involved in MLB who is tired enough of playing along politely and speaking the truth.
May 10th, 2007 at 3:51 am
I can relate to the frustration of the situation.
As Bonds inches closer and closer to the record, it makes me sicker and sicker. I don’t understand how Bud Selig can keep some people out of the game, while letting other perpetrators run free. I expected him to step in a few years ago and am greatly disappointed he stands idle as Bonds approaches 755.
My struggle with the this subject is, “How do I give meaningful feedback in the midst of baseball record travesty?” Being a fan, I know my opinion is so far off the radar, it is meaningless.
I look at your original comments and think, here is a man who shares some of the same concerns I do. I wonder if you are frustrated with Selig’s inaction at a time when only he can preserve the dignity of this record. Because of your success and your expertise in the realm of baseball, you have a platform to be able to address this issue to some degree.
I understand the need to retract your comments but can’t help but share your frustration on the situation.
May 10th, 2007 at 4:39 am
Some random thoughts. I wish you would stick to pitching. That is something you are truly great at. Do you ever shut up? Your team mates must get sick of it. Years ago I read the SI article with your views on steroids. Then watching you in front of Congress,in a state of amnesia when you could have been helpful, was sickening. It’s just my opinions.
May 10th, 2007 at 5:01 am
You went over the line Curt. I thought you were a man with dignity. Barry Bonds is the best baseball player in the game today. Always has been. Every since he picked up a bat he was the best at every level. And you damn well know it! He learned from the greatest player to ever play the game (Willie Mays) and his father (Bobby Bonds). He does not need to take steriods to get an edge over anyone in the game today. Like Bobby Valentine said;”If Barry Bonds is taking steriods he’s shooting them in his EYES!!!” Why did you attack his personal life? Shame on you. You are just another racist that can’t except the fact that a smug, arrogant and intelligent Black Man is making you all look like what you are….averavge ass players!!!
May 10th, 2007 at 5:33 am
Giantsfans, surely, all doubt will be removed from the rest of us as you wildly cheer on a philandering, tax-evading, perjuring juicer as he rounds the bases, breaking the most hallowed record in all of sports, one set by a man composed of such class that Bonds will never possess.
Standards are for other people, I guess.
May 10th, 2007 at 6:15 am
//More people died in Josh Hancock’s car than from using steroids. //
Oh please. There is no way to prove something like that. Lyle Alzado and Ken Caminiti ring any bells for you? There is more than a good chance they both died from complications that came about because of their steroid use.
And, again, do a Google search and you’ll find stories about high school and college kids whose careers and lives were ruined by steroids.
And as far as making personal apologies to Roger and Barry, he didn’t say anything TO them so why should he have to apologize TO them?
And hypocrisy abounds with the haters here. It’s okay for Bonds to be a cheating jerk and for Roger to be a greedy liar, but it isn’t okay for Curt to be who he is? An outspoken man who occasionally says things he shouldn’t - and then is big enough to acknowledge that.
Again, good for you Curt. I might not agree with everything you say (although I do in this case) but you’re a bigger person then any of those ‘writers’ who wouldn’t dare ever admit they were wrong.
May 10th, 2007 at 6:16 am
Curt,
What are the Boston Red Sox doing to counteract the debilitating effects of man-made global warming?
Can you convince Lucchino, et. al. to buy carbon offsets from a reputable dealer?
Thanks.
And we will keep on supporting your many worthy charities in return (thanks for all you do, BTW; it’s uplifting to see people like you and your wife working tirelessly to help and to educate others). I know that most players do lots of charitable work, but you seem to be at the forefront.
May 10th, 2007 at 6:24 am
Curt,
I think we all feel the same way you do. I am sure that people have cheated the system or slid on the edge for years. I hope he finishes breaking the record because he surly will and I am tired of hearing about it. I hope he then retires and gets out of the game for good. I will always remeber the milestones in Baseball; The 1978 Playoff game (wish I could forget), Hank Aaron breaking Babe Ruth’s record, and of course the 2004 Red Sox! Lets just let him hit homers and get out of the game and 10 years from now forget him and celebrate a few more World Series titles for the Sox. God Bless you and your family. A WOW Army Pal
May 10th, 2007 at 6:24 am
I commend you on your apology. It takes a big man to admit he’s wrong especially when you boss points it out to you in public.
Regarding Barry Bonds, I am really tired of all the pot shots taken at him. Barry has not single handedly destroyed baseball. Maybe he has used steroids and maybe knowingly as well. So what! Explain to me how that has helped out his hand-eye coordination. How is it that he cans still outhit anybody in baseball? Don’t you think with all the scrutiny he has on him that we should have caught him cheating by now?? But, yet he still is leading the NL in homeruns…how is that possible? How can Barry be so goddamn smart that the rest of the baseball and the world can’t catch him cheating now?!?!?!
My point is that despite all the allegations of steroid use, he has never tested positive. He still is the most feared hitter in baseball. I, personally do not like him. He comes across as an arrogant a$$, but I can certainly respect his ability. I don’t think many can comprehend how difficult it is to hit a baseball at 90+ miles an hour, but still he does it. If he used steroids that makes him a bigger a$$, but my God, can we compare him to Ty Cobb or Babe Ruth. Cobb was the epitome of an a$$, he was a dirty player and Ruth spent inordinate amounts of time drinking and chasing women, but we idolize him!! Why?
Barry IS bigger than he was when he joined the league… of course he is. So were Maguire, Canseco, etc. Why? Because he works out like a madman, so did they. Perhaps the steroids have helped, but there is no proof, no smoking gun…just allegations. Pointing and saying look at him proves squat. Perhaps some of you fat a$$ armchair critics should spend 20 years of your life working out in the gym and see what it does to your physique. I’ll bet you get a little bigger and stronger too. I’m tired of everyone saying that steroids had made him who and what he is. BS! It may have helped to some degree, but he has natural talent and has worked his a$$ off for 20 years at this. Leave him alone. What the hell to you care if he breaks the record anyway!
Get off your high moralistic horses, you hypocrites!
May 10th, 2007 at 6:38 am
No need to “apologize” for telling the truth. It is really sad that in this “politically correct” society, people in the public eye can’t say what needs to be said without a crowd of liberal do-gooders jumping on their back.
May 10th, 2007 at 6:40 am
I enjoy your session on WEEI because of the first hand insights that you provide. Everyone is going to make mistakes, and it’s admirable that you held your hand up and dealt with it. I don’t consider your comment on baseball related matters to be a mistake. I listened to the Big Show yesterday and have to say I’m less inclined to listen going forward based on some of the opinions espoused there - mainly from Ordway. Don’t worry what the media guys say - the majority of fans with a bit of common sense appreciate your contributions.
May 10th, 2007 at 6:45 am
So Francona has told you to “zip it” and apologize for your comments although everything you said was true. Seems to me MLB does not want us to know the truth. Bud Selig has no clue on how to handle the PR when Bonds breaks the record. Sosa, Palmerio, Giambi, Bonds and Canseco CHEATED. Canseco is the first and only one to admit it. Pete Rose is banned from the Hall of Fame for gambling? If so these guys should go to jail for doing what they did.
May 10th, 2007 at 6:52 am
Just be quiet for once in your life. We are all imperfect except you I guess. Leave the guy alone. Concentrate on taking us back to the series.
May 10th, 2007 at 6:59 am
BTW- I now know why you gave the 2 gopher balls to AROD. He … Gulp… is the only one in the near future that could be our saviour. The only way to end this nicely is to give Arod as many homers as possible and give BB as many BBs as possible so Arod can pass him before BB can get the record. Gulp… go AROD… GO AROD!!!
May 10th, 2007 at 6:59 am
While I share many of your recent concerns about Bonds, I was disappointed in the manner you voiced them.
If you were a journalist, you’d be unemployed today. Any leverage in your beef with the media is now gone. You are officially part of the problem you perceive in sports journalism.
What concerns me most are the posters above who view your comments as refreshing free speech. Their willingness to overlook the inaccuracies of your statements - and their impact on others both near and far - speaks to a much larger societal problem.
May 10th, 2007 at 7:10 am
Curt I agree with everything you have said. It was great of you to say you are sorry. It takes a real man to do that and admit their mistakes.
May 10th, 2007 at 7:15 am
I am so sick of the political correctness in this country. You expressed an opinion. An opinion that was backed up by facts. If you appoligized for public opinion hits you were taking, then think about this. Everyone on this blogs is saying that you manned up and it took guts to appologize. I think you caved under the pressure of public opinion when you should have manned up and stood by your comments.
May 10th, 2007 at 7:26 am
Schill,
I commend you on taking action in making an apology, however- you ARE entitled to your opinion. I am actually a fan of both Barry and yourself. No one comes out of life completely clean, and regardless of what Barry did or did not do, what he does or does not accomplish - you should be able to have an opinion in any forum without having to make a retraction or apologize because the powers that be don’t approve of the PR ramifications for the Sox.
Thank you creating your blog, it’s a great insight into you as a person, player, parent, husband, and one of my all time favorite Red Sox players! Keep up the good work!
May 10th, 2007 at 7:30 am
“The only perfect human to walk the face of the earth died a few thousand years ago, that much I know.” Wrong again Jesus Boy.
‘Not sure how to tell someone who knows so much about the bible and all, but I think he lived and died a COUPLE thousand years ago.
Zip it Bonehead!
May 10th, 2007 at 7:31 am
Curt, I agree with your first statements on Bonds, and feel it was the right thing to do above. The RS are playing better than any previous team I can remember since becoming a fan in 1979, it’s awesome to feel like each starting pitcher the RS roll out can shut the opposing team down and you are a big part of this.
May 10th, 2007 at 7:41 am
I admire your courage in issuing an apology in this format instead of a sterile press release which usually doesn’t amount to an apology. I think if you had simply confined your comments to baseball issues, as opposed to Bonds’ family indiscretions, you would not have needed to apologize at all. I think, however, many people misunderstand Christ’s words to turn the other cheek. Christ was often accused of terrible things and on many occasions when this happen, Christ defended himself by speaking the truth. He was not always gentle either (e.g. Matthew 23). I believe that as a Christian, you are entitled to defend yourself as you did with the bloody sock story recently. I think Christ’s words to turn the other cheek is a way of saying we should not give like for like. If someone lies about you, for instance, do not lie about them in retaliation. Rather, as Paul says, overcome evil with good. Christianity is all about telling the truth as we see it and there is nothing wrong in doing that so long as our motives are honesty, loyalty to God, and love for our fellow human beings (something that is not always easy to have). People use the “turn the other cheek” line to make Christians afraid of speaking out for what they believe. It’s not always easy to find the right balance. At least you are trying.
May 10th, 2007 at 7:43 am
It was good of you to apologize but honestly it seems you spoke the truth. It’s ridiculous that you’ve been made out to be the “bad guy” in this situation.
May 10th, 2007 at 7:44 am
Schill,
First of all; you’re “wicked” AWESOME!
Although apologizing was the right thing to do for this “politically correct” climate we live in, I do not feel it was nescessary.
You have been more than outspoken at times, but so what? First instinct is the best, and if you have something on your mind…
Perhaps when Bonds gets the homerun record, he’ll apologze for the means in which helped him get there.
Even still, I feel while in the process, he is only helping to solidify names like Aaron, Ruth, Mays, etc., as the true greats of the game.
Keep it up Schill!
P.S. Screw Clemens!!
May 10th, 2007 at 7:46 am
CURT! ALL OF US BASEBALL FANS OWE YOU A BIG THANKS! THE BONDS CHEATING DEAL WAS ACCEPTED! WE ALL KNEW HE DID AND THAT WAS THAT! NOW IT IS ALL OUT THERE AGAIN! I BET BUD HATES IT! TOO BAD!
YOU HAVE STARTED THE PUBLIC DISCOURSE ALL ACCROSS THE LAND! WE D O NEED TO TALK ABOUT THIS MEAN, LYING, CHEATER BREAKING THESE RECORDS! FOR THE GOOD OF THE GAME! IT REMINDS ME OF THE IDITAROD FROM YOUR HOME STATE! PEOPLE IN IT ASKED THE POWERS THAT BE FOR TOO LONG TO REMOVE A GUY BEATING HIS DOGS IN FRONT OF EVERYONE!
ONE OF THEM DIED FROM IT! BUT THEY LET HIM RACE! JUST LIKE BUD LETS BARRY E-RASE A RECORD SET BY A GREAT BLACK MAN! I DON`T BLAME HIM FOR STEROIDS! I BLAME HIM FOR WHAT HAS HAPPENED NOW! THE GAME IS NOW A JOKE!
THANKS TO BARRY AND BUD!
BAD AND BADDER!
May 10th, 2007 at 7:53 am
As a Black Man, I believe that your racists rants should be put in check. Where’s Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton when we need them. This is obviously racism at it’s worst. Being an Afican American, I have to deal with stuff like this everywhere. I was just at the bank and walked in at the same time and the white bread old lady and the teller asks her if he could help her first. Another example of racism. This old lady owes me and every other black person the right to go first. When are white people going to realize that you owe us?!? You ARE a RACIST!
May 10th, 2007 at 7:58 am
I appreciate you making the public apology because you were wrong. Not only do we not know if Barry cheated on his wife how the hell do we know if he cheated on his taxes? HGH isn’t even detectable on tests yet so we don’t have the proof there either. All we have really is the circumstantial evidence that was presented in Game of Shadows. If Barry really cheated he’ll pay with his life that’s how it always works especially dealing with steroids.
What’s up with the idiots on this blog saying they agree with your original statements? *Shakes head* I guess they never heard of the terms “slander” or “libel”.
May 10th, 2007 at 8:02 am
I too am disgusted with each home run Barry hits. I don’t think anyone should ever apologize for anything they say to anyone else. They are just words, and usually a true representation of how people really feel and think. If people are ‘hurt’ by something someone says, then boo-hoo. People are too pressured these days to be ‘politically correct’ and say the ‘right’ words as to not offend. I think it’s offensive for people to have to pick and choose their words rather than just say it, more specifically, myself feeling that if I don’t, then I can be forced to resign from my job or fired outright. How can we have 2 sides to every story, or in this case, every opinion, if we give in to the pressure of ‘doing the right thing’. What’s right for you may not be right for me. That’s the definition of an opinion, paraphrased. So, be yourself and let people know how you feel. That truly is the only way to change things.
May 10th, 2007 at 8:03 am
Doubt you’ll even read this because there are so many comments already. But I hope your apology does come from a real awareness you’ve reached about what you said, I take you at your word that it does. That apology was one of the best things I’ve ever heard from you.
I think in all honesty that you could do very well to model yourself after Terry Francona- what he has had to say about the whole situation is perfectly rational and makes complete sense. He’s a wise and patient man, and the Red Sox fans and players are lucky to have him as the manager.
I am not a fan of Barry Bonds either but your comments about his private life and financial life were way out of line in my opinion-and leave it up to baseball to decide about the steroids. It is a maddening situation but it is up to them. I know that you would never want anyone to make negative comments about your lovely family just because they have whatever issues with you as a baseball player and/or person. And your comments reflect poorly on the team and cause problems, as we all know now. The team is doing quite well- such distractions are so unnecessary and so frustrating for fans.
The challenge now is to really change going forward, and I know you are up to that challenge. And to use this blog and your radio time for some positivity. Onward and upward, and good luck.
May 10th, 2007 at 8:04 am
I hope you don’t let criticism of you bother you one bit. In the past, even your actions on behalf of ALS victims are scrutinized. Because of the need to sell newspapers and TV and radio airtime everything you do is put under a microscope. As Teddy Roosevelt said:
“It is not the critic that counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles. Or where the doer of deeds could have done better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, and comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; who knows the great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement. And at worst, If he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who know neither victory nor defeat.”
As far as I’m concerned, you and your family’s charitable works create a overflowing well of goodwill from which to draw. Thanks again and, if I were you, I wouldn’t waste another minute thinking about it.
May 10th, 2007 at 8:06 am
Mr. Shilling,
As a new member of your blog, I’d like to applaud you on your integrity regarding your apology. We have all said something we regret later, we are all human.
It is easy to voice an opinion, but difficult to realize the ripple effect it may cause, in others lives, and you have. You apologized, which a lot of people would not have done in the same situation. For that, you should be commended.
Also, since this is the first time I am posting, I’d like to take a second to thank you (and the rest of the Sox) for all of the wonderful charity work you have done. It is recognized and appreciated. You have a huge heart, and the fact that you were man enough to admit you made a mistake and apologize just enforces what a wonderful person you are.
I am proud to have such upstanding men as members of the team that I love!!
Keep up the good work!
May 10th, 2007 at 8:07 am
Mr. Shilling,
As a new member of your blog, I’d like to applaud you on your integrity regarding your apology. We have all said something we regret later, we are all human.
It is easy to voice an opinion, but difficult to realize the ripple effect it may cause, in others lives, and you have. You apologized, which a lot of people would not have done in the same situation. For that, you should be commended.
Also, since this is the first time I am posting, I’d like to take a second to thank you (and the rest of the Sox) for all of the generous charity work you have done. It is recogized and appreciated. You have a huge heart, and the fact that you were man enough to admit you made a mistake and apologize just enforces what a wonderful person you are.
I am proud to have such upstanding men as members of the team that I love!!
Keep up the good work!
May 10th, 2007 at 8:07 am
I applaud Curt Schilling for his candor. I wish more MLBers would come out publicly and state what is so obvisous to just about every baseball fan outside of San Francisco. Barry Bonds is a cheater, plain and simple. He is a disgrace to the great game of baseball, and yet he simply shrugs it off and laughs becasue he thinks he has tricked us all.
Maybe making the comment in the context that Curt did, by bringing up his infidelity and tax evasion, was not the wisest thing to do. And for that an apology was necessary, and was given. But I still stand up and applaud Curt Schilling for calling our Barry Bonds and his so obvious steroid inflated HR production.
Barry will break the record. But he still has nothing on the great Hank Aaron. I never thought I would say this, but I will only hope that someone comes along real soon to break Bond’s record, even if it is A-Rod.
Curt, you are the man!!!!! Please hold your head up high. You did no real wrong here.
May 10th, 2007 at 8:09 am
I feel that you have said what every other human being across America feels. What bothers me the most about this entire home run chase is that I have been a huge Ken Griffey Jr. fan my entire life and if he was not injured we would be talking about him breaking the home run record. He is one of the great players of the 90’s that will never have that asterisk next to his name and it is a shame that he will not be the all time home run champ. It is sad that some one that cheated the game will hold one of the most prestigious records in all of sports. I am a huge Red Sox fan but to tell you the truth I would rather have Alex Rodriguez some day break Barry’s eventual record. Thanks Curt for your opinion in this matter.
May 10th, 2007 at 8:13 am
I think many athletes are in no win situations with sports writers. Just some quick thoughts on this, isn’t it true that Bonds said that he might have used the “cream” and “the clear” not knowing it was a steriod? I am sorry in mind that is some sort of admission. I understand your desire to apologize and make this situation go away.
On the other side I personally appriciate you stating your mind. Am i thrilled about Bonds going to break the record? No, I think this is a joke.
I would make a perfect sports writer I am overweight middle age white guy who thinks he can evaluate people with more talent in their little finger than I do in my whole body.
May 10th, 2007 at 8:14 am
You need to look at yourself in a mirror before you try to criticize others. You are not judge and jury.
He who is without SIN let him cast the first stone.
Can you?
May 10th, 2007 at 8:15 am
Curt your self-promoting has caught up with you.
i am glad to see that your integrity about never feeling bad about what you say about another human being is still intact…………..NOT!! you showed that your word of honor is never to be trusted and that for all intents and purposes your a liar to yourself your family and the whole baseball world…
way to stick to your guns, i’m sure people you do business with are sure glad to be a part of your life………….
May 10th, 2007 at 8:22 am
Curt..
You did the right thing! Sending you love from Red Sox Nation in SW Florida!
May 10th, 2007 at 8:25 am
Good for you for manning up on this one Curt. I was really surprised when I heard what you said, so it’s good to see you recognize the errors of your ways. I understand the Bonds thing can be frustrating as a pro athlete, but let him deal with it … you don’t need to stoop to his level.
May 10th, 2007 at 8:27 am
As a previous admirer of Bonds, I found your comments to hit the nail on the head. What he is doing (and what the commissioner is condoning) is the biggest black eye for baseball since the “black Sox” scandal. He must be banned from the game and the sooner the better. Henry Aaron accomplished the most hallowed record with grace, dignity & racial threats, not chemicals. Bonds can’t even be civil to the people who pay him, the fans, so why should we celebrate an achievement that is so tainted it stinks everywhere in the US but that gay town, SF?
Mr. Schilling, keep up the great work, just not so great if and when you meet the Cardinals again!
May 10th, 2007 at 8:29 am
Curt, I am not even remotely a fan of yours, but I was soooo glad to hear a player stand up and make a statement against Bonds’ cheating with performance enhancements and his utter disrespect for baseball. It’s too bad you went way over the top with the personal comments and overshadowed the importance of your statement about the tainted record. You could have such a strong voice with real social impact if you could just refrain from the bravado and self absorbtion.
btw, charlie steiner said on xm yesterday that a poll was taken in the dodger clubhouse. they were asked, who they would want to win a fight to the death between you and barry bonds. they voted 100% for a tie.
May 10th, 2007 at 8:33 am
Maybe we can avoid the whole “Manny wants to be traded” crap this year since the media is all over you : )
May 10th, 2007 at 8:35 am
Why do people keep apologizing for calling out Bonds? He and everyone else that used steroids should be kicked out of baseball, but baseball doesn’t want that because they make money off of Bonds and cheaters like him (McGwire, Sosa, etc.).
May 10th, 2007 at 8:42 am
Curt:
Apology? Well, if you say so!
I’m pretty sure you cannot un-ring a bell! Once it’s done, it’s done!
I realize the need for an apology…political correctness and all that crap!
I, for one, believe in your original statement about Bonds…and I think you do too!
Thanks for the original…and I could have certainly survived without the second one!!
May 10th, 2007 at 8:43 am
Curt,
Enough said, we all understand and hope that all involved parties accept your apology. Just don’t go to Al Sharpton and Rev Jackson know, and try to have them understand. Look at Don Imus as an example.
May 10th, 2007 at 8:44 am
Mr. Schilling,
I think you have overestimated your importance in baseball. You are a great pitcher but you are not a spokesman for the game, and its likely you never will be. Very good apology by the way.
May 10th, 2007 at 8:59 am
One of the most amazing things about this comment thread is that a reader (#376) has somehow managed to insinuate global warming into the discussion. And Arianna Huffington.
Actually, the most impressive thing about this comment thread is that Mr. Schilling even permits one. If this blog testifies to anything, it is this: There are some nasty people out there.
My own nascent conviction about this controversy is rather simple: If Mr. Schilling wants to apologize, who am I to suggest he shouldn’t? Egads! If he thinks he said the wrong thing, then let’s permit him the simple courtesy of accepting his admissions. As strained as it is for any of us to declare what is at the heart and soul of Mr. Bonds, it is no less strained to divine what is Mr. Schilling’s real motive. If he announces that he is contrite, then he is, indeed, contrite.
The only expert qualified to analyze Mr. Schilling’s opinion is Mr. Schilling himself. And he has said he was wrong.
That’s a pretty simple pitch to hit.
Of course, when some readers whiff at such a pitch, they look for someone or something (other than themselves, of course) to blame.
Peace.
May 10th, 2007 at 9:00 am
Curt,
You had absolutely NO RIGHT to make any comments on anyone except yourself. Everyone in this world would better serve themselves (and their families) if they managed their own life and stay out of everyone elses. I am sure the skeletons in your closest might need some of your attention.
I have known Barry and his family for a long time and I have nothing but the utmost respect for him as a person, a baseball player and a father. Barry does what he needs to do to keep his personal life out of the media and you have no busisness bringing it to the forefront and discussing it with anyone. You are a loud mouth attention hound and will use anyone to forward your career. Maybe you should try and further your career on the field instead of in the media- as Barry has always done. The wives and children of professional athletes should be off limits to the media, because they owe the media and the fans nothing, and you of all people should know this. REMEMBER - what you reap, you shall also sow.
In regards to the cheating on taxes - name one person in America that doesn’t do it to some degree. I think that maybe even you have done it. Think long and hard on this one “Mr. Perfect”.
Be very careful living in your glass house and casting the first stone.
May 10th, 2007 at 9:05 am
you just said what the rest of us wish we could. he should of been suspended like any others who fail drug test. when is it wrong to say somthing thats a fact.
May 10th, 2007 at 9:08 am
Curt,
don’t worry: this controversy will bring a truckload of extra traffic to your blog (not that you need it!) and as a result, more clickthroughs to 38studios (who knows, maybe you needed that). This is the way celebrity works: there’s no such thing as bad publicity. The only important thing is to make yourself part of the story.
And if you think I’m wrong, just ask CHB.
cheers,
- a fan
May 10th, 2007 at 9:11 am
So you’ve called Bonds, ‘hands down, the best player in the game today’ .
The man has 8 home runs off of you, so far.
And now you stoop to some low life media level and insult the man and his family.
I was impressed by you and your toughness once in your series vs. the Yanks. But now, your just another jock. I’ll look elsewhere for role model.
Hope coach prepares a better apology for you before you get to SF this year.
May 10th, 2007 at 9:11 am
First off… it was really good of you to apologize and it, (at the risk of being trite), took a big man to do that.
Secondly… You weren’t necessarily wrong at all. Bonds is a polarizing human, not because he’s black, but because he a dispicable man.
Thirdly… I’m not a fan of every person having to apologize for saying stuff. We have freedom of speech, and thats what it means. I can understand if you offended someone not involved in a bad way with Bonds, but everything you said was based around Bonds, and was completely true.
Thanks Curt, forever
K ALS
May 10th, 2007 at 9:21 am
I read the first few comments to Curt’s post today. For those of you who said it is no problem or that they agreed with Curt: The problem wasn’t that he stated his opinion (Bonds being juiced up or not being worthy of any records). The problem was that he spoke mistruths, or at least things that have never previously been documented.
“He [Bonds] admitted he used steroids. There’s no gray area,” Schilling said on WEEI. “He [Bonds] admitted cheating on his wife, cheating on taxes and cheating on the game.”
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2007/baseball/mlb/05/09/schilling.apology/index.html
See what I mean? Bonds has never admitted to any of things. It is fine if Curt or anyone has the OPINION that Bonds did these things, but to lie and say that Bonds admitted them is completely wrong, and that is what Curt is apologizing for here. How can he say “there is no grey area?” Does he know something we don’t know?
In fact, this apology is pretty lame. Maybe that is why some of you are confused–Curt didn’t even really explain what he has actually done or why he is apologizing. He just said he was sorry for saying what he did.
May 10th, 2007 at 9:28 am
Hey Curt, I know he didn’t admit it but I think you would have been fine if you said he should admit that he cheated on his wife, his taxes and on the game of baseball. I mean it’s alright to call him out, how can we celebrate a cheater. You just keep talking about whats on your mind because we love to hear it and nobody else will say anything unless its David Wells.
May 10th, 2007 at 9:38 am
I can understand apologizing about comments made about his family, but everyone knows that he used the juice. Don’t apologize for telling the truth about stuff related to baseball. I hate Barry Bonds. He was one of my favorite players when I was a kid, and now he’s made me question my love of baseball. Apologize about the callous remarks made about his family, but don’t apologize about calling his record-breaking attempt a sham. It is. This is First Amendment issue. Don’t let the Sox censor you about that.
May 10th, 2007 at 9:38 am
Curt:
Please shut up and pitch. No one cares what you think about Barry Bonds because you are just not that interesting. I thought it was a joke when you decided to capitalize on the 2004 World Series victory by immediately shoving your support for George Bush down our throats. The fact that you used to be a good pitcher doesn’t qualify you as a political analyst. You’re like a child who has to act up when he isn’t getting enough attention. What’s wrong, are Beckett and Dice-K sucking up too much of your attention? The Sox are on a roll. Don’t screw this up by giving constant bulletin board fodder to the other teams. Finally, if you think getting up at 8:30 a.m. excuses your dumb comments, think again. Most people in the real world have been up for hours by 8:30 a.m. and they work every day, not every fifth day.
May 10th, 2007 at 9:40 am
Hey Curt,
I’ve always been a big admirer of yours. To be honest, I think you tend to be a “top stepper” at times, but you’re a good guy who does a lot for the team you play for and the city you play in.
My prob with your statement was that you went two steps too far. Okay, Barry never did admit to cheating. But we know he did, and screw him. After he retires and loses the limelight, he’ll go Pete Rose on us with a tell-all tome.
Where you lost me was when you brought in the wife and taxes. I think you were hot and it spiraled from cheating on the game to just being a great big cheat. That’s why I don’t envy athletes. Their random thoughts on a bad day are front page currency.
As a Yankee fan (Bronx born, not post ‘96 generated), I respect the hell out of you as a player. You’ve taken us out twice, and when you had the chance to take the easy road and come on board, you chose Boston for the challenge it presented in exorcising the curse. In hindsight, it was the right move, but back then it took balls. It’s who you are as a player, and why if I had one game to win, you’d be on the mound.
Stop apologizing now and move on. You guys should run away with this thing. Too bad Barry’s club won’t be meeting up with you in October. What a showdown that would be.
marco
May 10th, 2007 at 9:41 am
I apoligize for Freedom of Speech!
May 10th, 2007 at 9:42 am
Curt,
It certainly took alot of courage for you to openly express your remorse on the comments made. Listen, we all tend to react on our feelings instead of taking the time to think about it.
Please don’t let this make you back down on speaking your mind from here forward. I for one respect that, and respect you for being that way.
I feel it is better to express yourself openly to people rather than talk behind their back.
Keep your head up man!
Peter
The http://www.pcaholic.com
May 10th, 2007 at 9:45 am
Curt:
What you initially said was the truth. Bonds is a fraud and it takes a lot of guts to publicly say what’s on your mind. What bothers me is that you completely retracted everything you said, blaming it on making a mistake and a bad day.
If I were sitting with you one one one and asked what you thought about Bonds, you would tell me he IS A CHEAT. So why completely retract?
I think a better approach would have been to stick with the baseball related issue and not bring in private issues such as his tax and extramarital issues. When you do that, it is a low blow and you should have apologized for that.
BUT DON’T RETRACT HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THE BASEBALL RELATED MATTER. It’s how you feel and you shouldn’t be crucified for that. Furthermore, you should be applauded. If there were more players out there willing to state their minds, Bonds would have retired two years ago.
May 10th, 2007 at 9:53 am
Curt
First let me say you really had no need to say your sorry. Bonds is a bum he is a p.o.s! The sad thing is kids look up to him as they do with all you ball players, which is a good I did the same when I was gorwing up with guys like Dale Murrphy in those days. He (Bonds) should not be looked up at he is a cheat and a lire plain a simple. If I were a manager of a NL or AL Ball club I would walk him or plunk him every at bat, because he has no right to Hank Arrons record. Hank didn’t have any help setting it so Bonds should NOT be allowed to break it. If he is allowed to break the record then Pete Rose should be in the Hall Of Fame! What it all boils down to is that Bud needs to grow a back bone and do something about this and not let the Congress get envoled!! So what you said was simply the truth and the way any true Fan should feel toward Bonds. He is just no good for the game. I commend you for saying what should have been said a long time ago.
May 10th, 2007 at 9:53 am
Curt,
For a man who claims to be such a big Christian, you certainly have a hard time turning the other cheek. I’m not sure if it’s your need for attention or what, but what you are doing is being a distraction to the team and your teammates. So if you have no choice but to continue your ways, get yourself traded or if you want to help your Boston Red Sox win, just shut up please.
May 10th, 2007 at 9:54 am
Why give an apology? You are right, Bonds doesn’t deserve the record. Bonds is a drug user that slipped around the system. Bonds has no class and continues to show his lack of respect for everyone.
Don’t apologies for the way you feel.
May 10th, 2007 at 9:58 am
27 bxyankee
I guess here is the part when all your adoring fans pour in forgiving you for everything you’ve ever done and saying “it’s okay curt keep your head up. You’ll bounce back, you always have.”
Jose Canseco is right, you are a politician and a liar.
It’s obvious you really feel this way your just doing the “political thing” right now and backtracking.
We all know how you feel about every issue, it’s not a secret.
Hypocrite.
P.S. Dipset bitch
bxyankee, you’re a moron. How’s it feel to be behind the Sox?
May 10th, 2007 at 9:59 am
Curt,
Here you go again. This won’t be the last time that you will say your sorry because you can’t keep your mouth shut. Maybe you should have said something when you were in front of the court instead of freezing like a ice cube.
Play baseball and keep your remarks to yourself!
May 10th, 2007 at 10:01 am
Curt
Why are you appologizing? When will people learn that this is America and there is something called free speech. Do you think Boston fans are going to get mad at you? No. Most agree with you. Your comments are truthful. Hell I did not know everything that you stated was going on with Barry Bonds. I am glad you told me. Now I can dislike him more and find more reason to bad mouth the cheater. I can’t believe that anyone would support that guy.
Am I going to watch him do it? No. I told myself a while back if one of the players who were hitting so many home runs back then, that it would be cool to see someone break the record in my lifetime. I was totally wrong with these circumstances.
I hope Curt that you will show young players that cheaters do not belong in the game. Encourage them not to pitch to him. Encourage them to hit him in the back.
Also, in your comments you through in you didn’t care what color he is. Well guess what Curt? He cares what color you are.
-Stew- A Cleveland Indians fan.
May 10th, 2007 at 10:03 am
Dear Curt:
Thank you for rising above the situation to show professional responsibility. I truly respect that, and hope more people follow your example.
I believe there is a better way to protest the abuse of steroids that otherwise dishonors baseball tradition and history.
I suggest a campaign to “bean” steroid-users whenever they come up to bat so they are not afforded a chance to spoil valid homerun records. I believe the public would cheer this on.
When the system fails to screen out abuses, it is up to the people to express disapproval. I think this would be a fair way to try to restore honor to the game.
Yours truly,
Emily
May 10th, 2007 at 10:08 am
Curt,
It’s amazing to me that you’re in your fourth year of service to the Boston Red Sox and you still haven’t learned how to negotiate the media. You’re kind of like the George W. Bush of baseball — you’ve managed to take a 90% approval rating and decimate it over the course of a few years, mostly as a result of insinuating yourself into situations that you don’t necessarily understand, and in ways that aren’t necessarily appropriate. I used to feel like I was a minority in wishing you weren’t here, but over time I’ve noticed an increase in the number of fans who’d prefer you’d take your act elsewhere, or else learn and accept your place. If you truly had the amount of respect you claim to have for the legacy of the Boston Red Sox, and the community of awesome fans who have dedicated their lives to this team, you’d have the good sense to just shut up and pitch. As far as I’m concerned, you’re still a hired gun who helped us win a championship. I appreciate what you did for us in 2004, and that’s as far as I’m willing to go.
Citing Jesus in your apology comes off as a cheap way to make yourself sound humble, when in fact you’ve got one of the biggest heads I’ve ever witnessed in my lifetime. You continually spout off your big opinions to D&C and whoever else is willing to listen, and it’s obvious you’ve never learned when to keep your mouth shut. If I were a devout Christian, I would be offended at the tactical way in which you use your faith to manipulate the hearts and minds of loyal fans.
That’s all we are — loyal fans. We want the best for our team. It’s nice that you provide us with a solid starting pitcher once every five games. But really, it’s times like this that I wonder if it’s even worth it.
Sincerely,
Matt
Providence RI
May 10th, 2007 at 10:12 am
Schilling,
Thank you for apologizing, it shuts all the media up for now… but I know what you said on WEEI is the truth. For anyone who doesn’t, I recommend reading Game of Shadows. The truth about Barry comes out as well as steriod use, etc. in track & field, swimming, etc. Excellent book and a good read. My husband had listened to it on a trip last year and we still talk about it today. We all know Barry is going to break the record but there isn’t a person (outside of Giant land) that believes he broke it illegally.
Also, Jose Canseco… he is a has been who’s only celebrity now is being an idiot on The Surreal Life and talking smack about athletes that are on their way to an outstanding season.
On another note… GO RED SOX! You guys are making winning look easy and lets keep it that way!
May 10th, 2007 at 10:26 am
Curt, as far as I’m concerned you have nothing to apologize for. You could say “The sky is blue” and ESPN would make a story out of it.
To paraphrase Major League, when bonds comes to town, “Strike that mother out!”
May 10th, 2007 at 10:26 am
Curt- I couldn’t agree with you more, and I appreciate your comments. Its frustrating to me that people throw the race card to come up with excuses why people aren’t supporting Barry in his “quest”. Even putting the steroids and other issues aside, has it occured to anyone that people might not support him because he’s such a jerk to the media and his fans?
May 10th, 2007 at 10:28 am
Bonds is the greatest hitter of our time. And oh yeah, the blood on the sock was fake.
May 10th, 2007 at 10:30 am
Curt,
You were an inspiration when you first did the Ford commercials, saying you were coming to boston to break our 86 year curse. You still are. A breath of fresh air in boston… so glad you are on our team!!
Jacqueline
May 10th, 2007 at 10:30 am
I think it was good of you to say you are sorry, and I hope it makes you think before speaking again. The one things I worry about is that the Red Sox do not need any distractions right now. We are so hot and I want us to stay that way. Please no more distractions for you or the team. Just go out there and do what you do best.
May 10th, 2007 at 10:34 am
An apology is part of a process:
1. Understanding your error and its consequence
2. Apologizing for the error
3. Analyzing the cause of the error
4. Activating a process to assure the error does not reoccur
As long as this kind of behavior is held in check everything is ok, but if a week from now I read it again…its harder to forgive.
As for Bonds, I am a huge Sox fan living in San Francisco. I have been witness to his entire career in SF. He is phenomenal. Beyond Big Papi even, for how he gets the crowd up