When [Palmeiro] was so adamant in March and made such a stern statement, I was proud of him being able to say that with so much conviction," said broadcaster Buck Martinez, a former major league player and manager. "Myself, like everyone else, kind of thought this is a guy who is really trying to clear his name. And then to have this, I think more than anything I am disappointed for the game."

Okay, here is what I don’t understand. It could not have been more obvious to me in March that Palmeiro was lying. Nobody would shut up about how special they thought it was that he so ardently defended himself and the game (lied!). I actually had to listen to coworkers discuss how impressed they were with his testimony.

Impressed?

Mark McGwire, on the other hand, refused to lie and was vilified for that. Huh?

I guess there is no accounting for other peoples’ assessment of character.

Update:

This was so absurd that I at first thought it was a sarcastic joke:

[from the Washington Post]

Bush Backs Rove, Palmeiro, 'Intelligent Design'

"Citing Mr. Palmeiro's previous statements under the 'klieg lights' that he had not used steroids, the former Texas Rangers part-owner said: 'I believe him -- still do.' . . .

Please, Mr. President, don’t convict the poor fellow with one of your ringing endorsements. I know he gave a few G’s to your campaigns, but perhaps you should put truth before loyalty for once. It’s okay to not believe in lies sometimes.

I know, I know. Its not like any of these guys lied about a blowjob or anything. Just the small stuff.

Thanks again for ending the long national nightmare and everything.