How could amphetamines help Bonds with baseball?

Question

They are drugs like Aderrall used to treat ADD. How could it benefit your baseball skills?

Answer 1

Amphetamines have been in baseball forever, don't assume that Barry Bonds is bringing some new illegal drug into the mix.

More widely referred to as "greenies," amphetamines have been in Major League Baseball for at least 50 years and have been used by just about every baseball player along the way.

Jim Bouton referenced tons of former Yankee greats, including Mickey Mantle, and other players during his time with the Pilots, including Lou Pinella, who were all habitual users of "greenies."

As many of the people above me have said, they are essentially a more potent version of caffeine pills and a less potent version of speed, a middle of the road sort of supplement with essentially one purpose--keep a player wide awake and alert.

Amphetamines weren't illegal in MLB until last season and that's why many players ended up breaking the rules last season and were forced to submit themselves to six random drug tests throughout the season. The thing is after the first offense no one is supposed to know, not even the club which the player is signed with. The Bonds' situation, however, was leaked for no better reason than because it makes for some good dirt during a slow time of year for baseball news.

Amphetamines do come in other forms which can aid with things such as ADHD, sleeplessness and various other physical ailments depending on the type and dosage of amphetamines the person takes.

For the most part the only effect it could have on Bonds is to keep him peppy and alert. It wouldn't improve hitting, speed, defense or any of the tangibles that you'd associate with a performance enhancer. The only advantage it gives any player is that they'd be a little more awake than someone who didn't get a good night's sleep. Nothing more, nothing less.

Hope that answers your question.

Answer 2

Baseball players often got weeks where they don't get a single day off. They play 162 games a year. You would get extremely fatigued with a schedule like that, playing in different cities, weather (expecially the long, hot summer months). The amphetamines are similar to caffeine, in that they help your body manufacture energy and help your mind to focus. Just think Red Bull or any ofthe other energy drinks out there. A quick pick-me-upper.

Answer 3

The amphetamines that Bonds is accused of taking is known as speed. The effect would be similar to taking several No-Doze or many cups of coffee. Players take speed to give them a pep of energy after late flights or for a day game following a night game. The drug will keep you awake and alert but also a bit jittery. College students use it when they study all night for exams.

Answer 4

Amphetamines are taken to improve alertness. After playing the first hundred games or so of the season, it becomes harder mentally and physically to perform. For instance, during the Summer months, players' swings are slower. Amphetamines function as a stimulant, thereby improving playing ability.

Answer 5

They improve reaction time. Baseball players have been notorious for the Herculean amounts of coffee they drink for the same reason. When Matt Williams played for the Giants for example, would drink two or three pots of coffee every single game. Williams stayed within the rules of the game. Bonds chose not to.

Answer 6

It gets you focused for the game. Speed also would help the body be ready for a game after a long plane ride or a day game after a night game.

Answer 7

The same way they helped Pete Rose and countless other star players.

Answer 8

Unable to continue his steroid injections, Bonds has had to turn to other substances to maintain his stamina and alertness, two important ingredients for a baseball player. "Phets" can give anyone a quick boost.

Answer 9

energy and focus