Goodell whimped out.

[twoseven]

"Why do outside regulators even have any reason to start sniffing around? The answer: political opportunism. "

Guess you apply the same line of reasoning to the whole steroid use in baseball.

The government didn't really get involved with the steroids in baseball saga until Selig proved he was too afraid of Donald Fehr to impose real penalties on players that tested positive. His suggestion was initially to the tune of

first offense - 10 games
2nd offense - 30 games
3rd offense - 60 games
..5th offense - lifetime ban

This pissed off the govt and many fans as it appeared hardly a slap on the wrist, it was a joke and sent a signal to Congress that baseball had no intentions of do anything about their steroid problem. Selig and Union head Donald Fehr were taken to task by Congress and threatened with legislation and if they couldn't come up with an adequate penalty structure the govt would get involved. Here's what quickly followed:

first offense - 50 games
2nd offense - 100 games
3rd offense - lifetime ban
Also, testing for amphetamines in baseball.

Nobody wants the govt wasting tax payers money, but this is one case in which I applaud the govt for getting involved. Selig didn't have the balls to stand up to Fehr and the players. The Baseball Union is ridiculously strong and never would have complied without Uncle Sam's attention.