Editorial: When hard news takes a back seat

Friday, Sept. 4, 1998 | 11:32 a.m.

When a hallowed sports record is on the verge of being broken controversy follows, and the debate among fans can be more intense than anything seen on Capitol Hill. When Roger Maris broke the record in 1961 purists dismissed him for accomplishing this feat in a 162-game season because Babe Ruth established the record in a season lasting just 154 games. McGwire, who is leading Sosa in the home run derby, is no exception to controversy. He has acknowledged using a nutritional supplement to help build muscles which, while legal in Major League Baseball, has been banned by the National Football League and the International Olympic Committee.

Another debate is whether, if McGwire or Sosa breaks the record, the fan retrieving the ball should cash in. But considering how wealthy players are, no one should lose any sleep if a bleacher bum catching the ball makes a profit, hitting baseball's version of the lottery. The Home Shopping Network is offering a minimum $250,000 bounty for the fan who catches the 62nd home run, saying it ultimately will donate the ball to baseball's Hall of Fame.

At the start of the baseball season knowledgeable sportswriters suggested that America's pastime might be past its prime. Baseball still has its share of problems, but the pursuit of Maris' record has re-energized the sport. The home run derby has put fun back in the game, something that has been missing for too long.