If I may ask you questions now...

When has Barry EVER been nice to the media? Why is it I've read stories in SI and other media from his teammates suggesting that he isn't a team player? Why is it when the team reports to camp and runs through drills Barry doesn't feel that he must do the same? Why did Jeff Kent feel the need to pound him during the season? Why was it that a few years ago people thought he should have been traded from SF to "remove the cancer."

You know, I've watched many MANY world series and most losers are gracious. Barry was an a-hole. "Next Question." You know what? That was the perfect chance to become a spokesman for the game, to show children how you should act after losing a game - instead he sulked and acted like an a-hole.

Steve Garvey? I don't know... if you want to see REAL sportsmen, then watch hockey. Wayne Gretzke is the quintessential league player. What a spokesman! Then take a look a Mario Lemiuex - another. Mike Gartner also always had time for the camera.

Yes, the media can ask dumb questions, but sport athletes have a responsibility to respond to them. The media is essentially the fan - they bring US into the locker room and are the closest many of us will ever get to these stars.

Barry doesn't get that.

Imagine if he had answered the questions:

"Do you think you've just lost your best chance at winning a ring"

Instead of "Next question. That was stupid. You are stupid. Next question."

What about.

"To date, yes, that was my best chance. I thought we had it, but the Angels just wanted it more. But now that I've had a good taste of the post season I will be back. We will be back next year."

You take a look at the answers above and you decide which one is better.

To me, he is self-centered. Don't let home runs or team loyalty cloud your judgement.