It is no secret that many Major League Baseball players chew tobacco (also called “dipping”) during games and practices. The nicotine in the tobacco relaxes the players and over time it turns into a bad habit. For many, it is also an unbreakable one that leads to mouth cancer and other illnesses.

“Major leaguers who chew tobacco are providing a bad example for the thousands of little leaguers who emulate them,” senior Alex Lash said.

Since at least 1845, players have been known to dip rampantly. Then, in the 20th century, usage took a big hit when cigarettes became more popular and commonplace among Americans. For approximately 20 years, players would smoke in the outfield until the surgeon general began to warn about lung cancer.

More among males, high school use has skyrocketed within the past 20 years. Companies are running more teen-friendly advertisements even though those who aren’t 18 shouldn’t have access to it.

The other side is of people who have no problem with the habit.

“I don’t think there’s a problem with it,” senior Kevin Robles said. “Otherwise, it would be banned.”

Diseases like throat cancer (which Babe Ruth died of in 1948) and leukoplakia, irritation patches inside the mouth, have affected millions in this world. The Federal Government has done nothing about it despite repeated calls from the public.

Whichever stance is to be taken on this issue, senior Luke Lundy feels that, “They are grown men and should be able to do what they want. It’s not as bad as celebrities and rappers doing drugs.”