Chicago has become the "fourth city to ban smokeless tobacco at sports venues," joining S.F., L.A. and Boston in "attempting to reduce its use in athletics," according to Jesse Rogers of ESPN CHICAGO. California's ban takes effect in '17, while New York "will vote Tuesday on the same measure." It will "become law in Chicago in 90 days, right in the middle of the baseball season." A first offense will "result in a fine of not less than $250, then $500 for a second violation and not less than $2,500 for each additional violation that occurs within one year of the first offense." Cubs manager Joe Maddon was "adamant that his players follow the new rules but said he simply believes in the freedom to make up one's mind when it comes to a legal substance." He said, "I stopped chewing tobacco 15 years ago. I know the pitfalls. I'm into education. Educate the masses, and then everybody can make their own decisions" (ESPNCHICAGO.com, 3/16). In Chicago, Mark Gonzales notes Maddon and P John Lackey "were miffed" over the legislation. Lackey said, "People in the stands can have a beer, but we can't do what we want? It's a little messed up. ... I don't do it. But grown men should have their own choice" (CHICAGO TRIBUNE, 3/17). White Sox P John Danks, who dips, said that he can "live with the measure." Danks: "I was raised to be a law-abiding citizen and if that’s the way it is, that’s the way it is. ... We’re grown men. Some guys will look at it and say I’m a grown man, I can do what I want within the limits of the law" (CHICAGO SUN-TIMES, 3/17).
MAKING PREPARATIONS: In N.Y., Mark Feinsand notes the Yankees are "doing their best to help any players kick the habit." A notice appeared inside the Yankees clubhouse yesterday that read: “Anyone wanting nicotine replacement therapy supplies (gum, lozenges or patches) to kick the habit, please see (trainer) Steve Donohue.” Yankees manager Joe Girardi said that MLB "sent a memo to all 30 teams this week, prompting the Yankees to post the memo for their players." Only a handful of Yankees players "still use smokeless tobacco, but it’s still present in clubhouses across the majors" (N.Y. DAILY NEWS, 3/17).
