Finally.

On Monday, wire reports are releasing something I'd heard on Friday. Sports Illustrated has excerpts of Rose's book and quotes are dripping out. Looks like Fay Vincent had it right - John Dowd is the hero of this, coming out ... well, roses.

Now, here's the thing ... Rose is essentially pointing to the Dowd Report and saying "yup, uh huh, it's right." He's playing the victim card. He's doing everything he was told to do in order to be reinstated just in time for a weak HoF class in 2005.

But is it the truth?

At what point do we take Pete's word for it? When do we stop questioning his sincerity despite clear motive? I think his next step - if it hasn't already happened - needs to be an apology to John Dowd. I don't know what step it is where you go back and ask forgiveness of all the people you've wronged, but I'm pretty sure Gamblers Anonymous has one of those steps.

There's a long line, Pete. Look 'em in the eye.

Oh wait, getting help - something Pete is saying he should have been given - isn't something he's done on his own! I've seen the deal he's made and I don't see therapy anywhere in there. If not, Bud's going to have some apologizing to do of his own.

EDIT: It's Step 9.