Tragic end to a tragic tale

It's always hard when you see one of your heroes struggle in life. The sight of someone you once thought invincible struggling with a common problem is almost too much to bear sometimes. A hero of mine passed away this week. His tragic tale is a reminder that, though some people have exceptional gifts, they are still human. \nKen Caminiti died Sunday at the age of 41 -- reportedly of cardiac arrest -- just eight years removed from winning the National League's Most Valuable Player award. As a player, fans will remember the former third baseman for his effort and courage as he almost always refused to sit on the bench when battling nagging injuries. As a person, he will be remembered for difficulties off the field. He struggled for years with alcoholism and drug abuse, and in 2001 was even arrested for possession of crack cocaine only eight days after his career ended. \nHis most famous off-the-field scandal came in 2002 when he told Sports Illustrated he had used steroids during his MVP season with the San Diego Padres in 1996. He then added he thought about half of all major leaguers were using them as well. He was shunned in many circles after these comments, but to those close to him the statements were seen as a way to exercise some of the many demons haunting him.\nHaving lived in San Diego and having seen Caminiti in person, on television and at games, I know I will remember him with a smile on his face. He was a man who loved his three daughters more than anything, was always available to fans for autographs, pictures or just to chat and enjoyed giving back to the community that loved him like a son. I will remember him for the way he played third base like no one I have ever seen -- diving for balls even if he didn't have a chance to get them, putting his body on the line every day and throwing with the laser of an arm he had. \nI don't think he was ever fully healthy, but he was out there regardless of the pain. \nI realize that he took steroids and thus was cheating, and I in no way condone that. But steroids don't affect how hard you play or whether you treat your fans with respect. That's why I loved Caminiti; not for how many home runs he hit, but for his kindness, respect and the way he gave the game everything he had at all times.\nKen Caminiti seemingly had everything; adoring fans, a beautiful family and a great professional career. The one thing he didn't have, however, was the ability to control his disease. He had many friends but had to turn to alcohol and drugs to find comfort.\nThe respect I gained for 'Cammy' from watching him play and interact with people may never be matched by another player. He was the ultimate lunch-pail guy, he showed up to work every day, battered and bruised but ready to go. He became such a fan favorite that even after all that had happened in his life, when he showed up in San Diego for the last game of 2003, he received an enormous ovation. The fans showed their support by remembering how great he was on and off the field in spite of his personal struggles. He later said he was overcome with emotion and called it his greatest day in baseball. \nSo to his true fans, Ken Caminiti will not be remembered as an addict, a cheater or a whistle blower. He will be remembered for the one thing that failed him in the end -- his heart.