Gwynn Says He Had Suspicions About Steroids
By Johnny McDonald

Tony Gwynn spoke before his legion of admirers about the steroid era and another Aztec baseball season and he applauded the entry of two former Padres' selection into the Hall of Fame.

Once again, the man who played 20 seasons for the Padres drew the largest luncheon audience (Jan. 8) at the San Diego Hall of Champions in Balboa Park.

"Basically, my life hasn't changed, I'm the same guy who retired six years ago, except that I'm a grandfather now," he said in his customary casual and humble fashion. "Maybe I'm kinda lost right now because I can't start baseball practice till Feb. 1. It's a new NCAA rule."

He answered, before being asked, about baseball's steroid problem. "I knew that was going to be the big question," he said.

"I played in the steroid years. That's a fact. You always had your suspicions. For me it was do what you do and that's about it.

"I always tried to be the best player I could be and I didn't get caught up in all the other stuff. Those with the problems will be judged for their actions."

Because of the intense media scrutiny, he admitted he is happy he played when he did.

"There are so many people covering the game with all those television crews. I

asked my son (Tony Jr. with Milwaukee) how do you have time to do what you have to do?"

He pointed out another change.

"When I played, they'd kill you if you lifted weights," he said with a laugh. Now, that's a big part of what these guys do."

He was asked whether he thought he could have finished the strike-shortened 1994 season batting more than .400.

"Yeah, in my mind I think I could have made it," he replied.

He said he was happy to hear news that former Padres relief pitcher Goose Gossage and manager Dick Williams will be inducted into the Hall of Fame, an honor he received last summer.

About his induction he said it was a wonderful experience being with many who had already been inducted and being in the same room with his heroes.

Back to coaching, he said the Aztecs have one of the toughest schedules in the country.

"We'll have to be aggressive against SC, UCLA and Fullerton," he said. "I'm a firm believer, to be the best you have to play the best. The biggest challenge I have everyday is to make them believe they can beat anybody.

"I'm thinking of their education, too, but the administration wants wins. That's the way it is."