Byrd Trying To Change Perception Of Former 'Steroid King'
The name Victor Conte is as connected with steroids as the names Barry Bonds and Jose Canseco. Conte spent time in prison and built a reputation that drove nearly every MLB player away from him. Everyone except the Chicago Cubs' Marlon Byrd.
Conte, whose Bay Area Lab Co-operative triggered a federal investigation of steroids use and distribution to athletes, has been working with Byrd since 2009 when he played for the Texas Rangers.
Is there reason for Byrd to be fearful that he's the only major leaguer still working Conte? He doesn't think so.
"No, not at all," Byrd said on the Mully and Hanley Show when asked if there's reason to fear his connection with Conte. "Working with Victor, the first thing everyone thinks: P.R. nightmare, 'The Steroid King,' BALCO. I mean there's nothing positive that comes with Victor's name. But again, now he's associated his name with positive people and we're going to get his name out there as being a good guy."
LISTEN: Marlon Byrd On The Mully And Hanley Show
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Byrd has been completely honest about his relationship with Conte and has never failed a drug test during his MLB career.
Last season, Byrd hit for a .293 BA, 12 HR, 66 RBI and .775 OPS and was named to the National League All-Star team.
