Boston Joins Pitch To Ban Chewing Tobacco From MLB
BOSTON (CBS) - It's as much a part of baseball culture as hot dogs and Cracker Jacks. Now, some are pushing for a ban on chewing tobacco at major league baseball fields.
"Unfortunately sports figures who use chewing tobacco may inadvertently send the message that this is a relatively safe way to use tobacco, and we have to counter that image because it's not safe," says Boston Public Health Commission Director Barbara Ferrar.
She cites a study from 2004 to 2010, showing the rate of teenagers using smokeless tobacco shot up nearly 40 percent in that time.
She and health officials from 15 other cities and towns are joining forces with a non-profit group called Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids.
They are hoping to get a ban on chewing tobacco written into the major league players' contract this year.
The move would be especially tough for certain Red Sox favorites, including manager Terry Francona.
He lost a bet with team president Larry Luccino several years ago, because he couldn't quit. Tito now chews a mix of tobacco wrapped in gum.
Chewing tobacco is already off limits in the minor leagues.
