Gary Sheffield must have friends in high places. He must have some ugly dirt on the commish. Like teflon, nothing sticks to Gary.

He has admitted using a steroid cream (albeit unknowingly). But he wasn't asked testify in front of Congress. Now, he breaks another rule, without receiving a slap on the wrist.

I know last week's altercation between Sheffield and a couple of Boston's fans was nothing like the Ron Artest incident. However, Gary Sheffield broke Rule 3.09 and should be punished for his actions.

Major League Baseball's official site lists the rules of the game.

3.09

Players in uniform shall not address or mingle with spectators, nor sit in the stands before, during, or after a game. No manager, coach or player shall address any spectator before or during a game. Players of opposing teams shall not fraternize at any time while in uniform.

To me this means that Sheffield's verbal and physical altercation with the right field spectators was illegal.

The commissioner's inaction is a gross injustice to game of baseball and the safety of its fans.

Not only that, but Sheffield feels his actions were justified.

In an article in the O.C. Register, Sheffield says, "It just proves that I was right."

Pah-lease. You are wrong, sir, regardless of whether you were hit. You took matters into your own hands. You disregarded the game and your team. You broke a plainly stated rule.

Sheffield could have done a number of different things. He could have gotten the police (who are always at the ready during a Yankee-Red Sox game). He could have called the umpire. He could have picked up the ball and continued with the play. He could have turned the other cheek. But Sheffield chose the more aggressive action - shove the fan. At the time Sheffield wasn't even sure who hit him.

Some people may praise Sheffield for not making the matter worse. I don't buy it. Perhaps we should give credit to the other fans who did not jump to their peers' aid.

The truth of the matter is that Sheffield could have caused more problems by shoving those in the stands. The person that should be commended is the security guard who jumped in to break up the altercation.

The fans were punished for their actions and may face criminal charges.
The fanatic, who attempted to clock Sheffield, should indeed be prosecuted for his actions.

The other fan was also reprimanded. Although personally I do not see how getting wet with beer is assualt. Uncomfortable? Sure. Upsetting? Definitely. Criminal? No. If that's the case I know a few bar patrons in Portland I'd like to take to court.

The Red Sox organization has already sent a clear message to its fans by revoking season tickets and banning the purchase of others.

Perhaps the Boston Red Sox should impose its own discipline on Sheffield. Ban him from playing in Fenway Park for three games. That would certainly please me.

E-mail this entry to a friend