When keeping it real goes wrong

There is a huge difference between speaking your mind...and speaking too much. Saying the wrong thing in the society we live in today could cost you your reputation, your endorsements, and your job. All of which affect your bottom line...your earning potential. Sometimes it's best to just lay low, especially if you're in the midst of controversy. We have all been exposed to the countless parables regarding talking too much. "Think before you speak...if you do not have anything nice to say don't say anything at all.....we have two ears and one mouth for a reason." The list goes on and on. In three bizarre cases last week, the athlete involved apparently did not get the memo. And it might cost them millions in the end.

Former American League mvp and current Texas Ranger Josh Hamilton caused quite a stir at his spring training debut. Hamilton, with bible in hand, opened the press conference with a verse on humility. When asked if the Rangers would get a hometown discount to resign him, Josh sounded anything but. He stated that he loved the fans, but did not owe the Rangers anything. Um Josh...that might be the last thing you want to be saying right now bruh....especially since your latest relapse has already cost you millions. But that's just plain ole common sense. That applies to every profession. If your actions away from work bring negative publicity to your employer and they decide not to fire you....you may not want to talk performance review for a while. Hey Josh...just lay low and play.

Reigning National League mvp Ryan Braun made unique history, becoming the first player to successfully appeal a positive mlb drug test. From all accounts, it appears the ruling was overturned not because of the urine sample, but the handling of it. If you are acquitted of a crime on a technicality...you take off your shoes and quietly tip toe to the nearest exit right? Not if your Ryan Braun...who immediately went on the offensive. He even went as far as to call the mlb testing process fatally flawed. In the words of my mother..."Hey Ryan...go somewhere and sit down". Until you are ready to address the 20% increase of testosterone in your urine then shut the bleep up and play. You got lucky dude. And why antagonize the very system with the resources to make your life a living hell? Just ask Barry Bonds and Roger Clemens. Hey Ryan...just lay low and play.

Former NBA player Javaris Crittenton was released from jail after being arrested Wednesday for speeding and obstructing a police officer. Apparently Crittenton was going 60 mph in a 45 mph zone. When pulled over, Javaris refused to get out of his Porsche and became verbally abusive toward the officer. Whats bizarre about this story? Crittenton is already out on bond for murder charges! Who in the world gets out on bond for a murder charge? The city of Atlanta gets a C'MON MAN!!! And to Mr.Crittenton, forget about basketball...you need to lay low and pray. follow @plcolter