Orioles first baseman Aubrey Huff admits that his language and behavior on a shock-jock radio program were not smart on his part, then added that no one’s ever accused him of being intelligent. That’s a plea of stupidity before the court of public opinion: “hey, sorry- I’m stupid!” I appreciate Aubrey’s honesty but “I’m dumb” doesn’t warrant a free pass. Oriole fans are upset and team executives are reportedly angry.

(In case you’re not aware, Huff took part in a live broadcast on satellite radio that included his referring to Baltimore as a “horse —-” city in terms of its nightlife. Huff also told tales of his alcohol abuse and watching pornographic movies.)

Huff’s radio repartee is classic “boys will be boys” stuff, and behind closed doors around a poker table with buddies it’s innocuous. But spoken into a broadcast microphone, no matter the known shock nature of the program, Huff wandered into the realm of irresponsibility. He’s a highly paid professional athlete who represents an organization- and in some ways a city- when he presents himself in public.

Huff says he’s not smart, and he’s entitled to that self-assessment. In the times I’ve spoken to him, I’ve found Aubrey to be fun-loving and care-free, but also reflective, sincere and, believe it or not- smart. At the very least, I have to think Huff is smart enough to know better (and upon reflection, he probably feels that way now, too). To whom much is given (athletic talent and riches), much is expected. You don’t have to be intelligent to be aware, but simple awareness of one’s responsibility can save a person from poor judgment.

Posted on Thursday, November 15th, 2007 at 6:35 pm.
Categories: Opinion.
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