Baseball - Mark Sweeney Did Not Supply Amphetamines

Mark Sweeney is known around the baseball circuit for his honesty, forthrightness, minding his own business and being a good teammate. These were the reasons why he was shocked when he learned that Barry Bonds had mentioned his name in connection with Bonds failing amphetamines test in the summer of 2006.

The New York Daily News had carried a report recently that Bonds had failed the amphetamines test after consuming a substance he had taken from Sweeney’s locker. Sweeney, however, has been very emphatic that there were never any amphetamines in his locker for Bonds to use or take. Sweeney says that was angry and hurt about these allegations and it was extremely frustrating for him and his family. Sweeney has been tested several times last season for amphetamines and has never failed any drug test. In the mean time, Bonds released a statement exonerating his team mate. The statement mentioned Sweeney as his teammate and friend and clarified that Sweeney did not give Bonds any amphetamines and that Sweeney had nothing to do with this matter. Through the statement, Bonds apologized to Sweeney and his family, his teammates, fans and the Giants. Sweeney, who prefers to stay out of spotlight, mentioned that he would discuss things over with Bonds during spring training. This is 37 year old Sweeney’s 13th year in the majors and he is just heading into his second season with San Francisco Giants. Last season Sweeney batted .251 with 5 home runs and 37 RBIs. While 42 year old Bonds will be starting his 22nd major league season and he is just 22 home runs away from breaking Hank Aaron’s record of 755 career home runs.