* We can all agree that it was unfortunate what happened to the Little Leaguers from Chicago–the feel-good, all-black, Jackie Robinson West team. It was stripped of its national title after it was revealed that team officials cheated by falsifying boundaries to add ineligible players.
A couple of issues overlap. First, cheating has happened before. Where boundaries and birth certificates are involved, there’s always a temptation. When a violation is discovered, action must be taken. It’s called doing the right, however emotionally blindsiding, thing.
Even a bunch of good kids who deserve better can’t be sent the message that cheating can be countenanced. Wins and honors–but not memories–have been withdrawn. They are no less talented, but without adding ineligibles, they probably wouldn’t have made it to Williamsport in the first place. Adults don’t cheat to bring in marginal players.
Second, Little League has become too big. National and international television, network sponsors and ratings, interviews, autographs, up-close and -personal backgrounders–and all the accompanying pressure. Sandlots on steroids. Last year, a losing pitcher was shown on live network TV emotionally melting down. You had to avert your eyes, it was that cringe-worthy.
This is what the Little League World Series has become. Lights, cameras, action in front of sold-out crowds and millions watching at home. Any wonder some will cheat at a kids’ game to get there?