Enlightening, controversial ideas on weight training, diet, exercise, running, biking, home workouts and more. Devil Rays coach Frank Howard said players aren't any stronger than they were 30 years ago. Players take better care of themselves today. It behooves them to, the salary structure being what it is. No question we've got some amazing specimens playing the game of baseball.
Management likes the way players take care of themselves today.
Some might wonder about the what-ifs for players from the past. His reported hangovers had to hurt his performance, not to mention the residual effect drinking had on his liver. Mantle died of liver cancer in 1995. Any discussion about the size of today's players brings up the question about other contributing factors. McGwire s admitted use of the performance-enhancing supplement androstenedione came under intense scrutiny this season, even though the substance is not banned by Major League Baseball.