Do The Honorable Thing, Barry

I'm not a fan of baseball, nor is this likely to matter in 12 hours, but for the sake of the integrity of "America's Pass-time" Barry Bonds needs to retire. Right now. Before he steps up to the plate. Now.

Barry, whether or not you knowingly took steroids, indeed whether or not you took them at all, it is no longer about you. It is about the game and its future. Many commentators are calling this the "steroid era." Debates rage regarding whether the history books ought to contain an asterisk next to your name. And your arrogance has certainly not helped to endear you to too many fans.

No one seriously questions your abilities. Even in your Pittsburgh Pirates, full head of hair, smaller biceps and deeper voice days, you were a superb ball player. That part of your career can never be taken away.

No one seriously doubts that you most likely will reach the all-time home-run record. But with this shadow hanging over you, it will be perpetually questioned whether you were honest in your pursuit of that record.

Just retire. Right now. Before you hit number 714. Be remembered for a final act of class.