Another grumpy sportswriter...

Every few months, a grumpy sportswriter complains about game entertainment, and wishes he could turn back the clock to a quieter time. The latest comes from the Washington Post, where writer David Nicholson somehow ties in "fan experience" with baseball's steroid scandal:

All these empty displays -- the Nats have already got the ear-splitting music; how long before they issue the invitations to public exhibitionism that have ruined Wizards' games: fans shaking what they've got to disco music or French-kissing on the Jumbotron? -- cheapen the game's serene beauty. They profane the green cathedrals -- to borrow the title of Philip Lowry's wonderful book about baseball stadiums past and present -- and their timeless symmetry, turning what ought to be a relaxing two or three hours into one more frenetic and ultimately empty experience.

It's hard not to make a connection between the steroid scandal that's already tarnished Mark McGwire's and Barry Bonds's great home-run chases and team owners' quest for a more exciting fan experience. Graced with increased attendance, the sports moguls asked no questions as their parks filled with fans who would rather see several home runs in a losing effort than a perfect bunt that wins the game. Read the full article...