It's been a bad start for San Francisco Giants fans this Wednesday, with many of us undoubtedly going through much of the same thing. Maybe something like this. But using the Kübler-Ross model we can get through this together.
Stage 1: Denial "this can't be happening"
The twittersphere explodes about the suspension. You thought this was just another ruse. Maybe like when Cabrera reportedly tested positive a month ago.
Naw. Uh-uh. No Way. I'm not buying that Melky would cheat. Then you saw MLB's statement, and Melky's statement, and it really hit home. Then you think of all the repercussions.
But denial is very fleeting, and moving on to stage two happens quickly.
Stage 2: Anger "It's not fair!" "How could this happen?"
Phrases like 'well, you're welcome for the NL West title, Dodgers' and 'you can kiss that contract extension goodbye' come to mind. Maybe even the thought of complete collapse crosses your mind. Your friend the Braves fan sends you a text. You become enraged. Something might get hurt.
That something is you, so don't punch the wall.
Stage 3: Bargaining "well, maybe..."
No. None of the maybe scenarios are going to happen, because the suspension is already in place. There will be no overturned rulings, the decision is final. Time to move on.
Stage 4: Depression "why even bother..."
The game is on, but you don't feel much like watching. You feel more like crawling under the covers. Maybe even with a pint of ice cream and a butterfinger.
You think of all the sad Melkmen in the stands, the kids that were rooting for him. Melky had become a hero for this team in just a few months, and will be stripped of that title faster than you can blink.
Stage 5: Acceptance "It's going to be ok"
Some may not be here yet, but when you reach this stage, You can see the light at the end of the tunnel, and maybe even a silver lining of that lingering cloud overhead.
The Giants are still atop the NL West. That's a good start.
Hunter Pence is sticking around next year. Buster Posey is still a candidate for MVP. Pablo Sandoval is Pablo Sandoval. Not to mention we did it 2010 with less offense than this.
Melky could be back for the playoffs, that is if the Giants make it (and if they want anything to do with him).
See? It's not a total loss, even though it's going to sting for a while.
For more on the Giants head over to McCovey Chronicles.