It seems like right before players arrive in spring training, there have been reports of at least one player being arrested for suspicion of driving under the influence. And they’re not all “young guys”. First, it was veteran utility fielder Adam Kennedy. Then the Miguel Cabrera incident. This week the Cleveland Indians have admitted that veteran outfielder (and newly signed) Austin Kearns was arrested back home before he arrived at camp in Arizona. Now comes today that Oakland A’s outfielder Coco Crisp was arrested. And that’s just the big leaguers. I’m sure others haven’t made the news. These aren’t young guys going out and having a few too many drinks and thinking they can make it home. These are older guys with families. Have players not learned from the Josh Hancock accident? (Hancock was killed during spring training after leaving a bar and he crashed into a truck). Players are human beings like the rest of us; they’re not invincible.

MLB was quick to step in and get Cabrera into a program. Maybe because it became such a public spectacle and it was his second media covered incident. However, it seems like there is a more widespread problem throughout the game. Spring training seems the ideal time to talk to the players about the dangers of drinking and driving. I know they’re not kids, but it’s a serious issue.

Are the arrests on the rise or are they just publicized more? Who knows, but I’m tired of hearing about a new arrest every week.