Meaning: The quote "Anything that harms the integrity of the game is terrible. We always thought we were immune to drugs in baseball, but we know that's not true anymore." is attributed to Harmon Killebrew, a former professional baseball player. This quote reflects Killebrew's stance on the importance of upholding the integrity of the sport and his acknowledgment of the prevalence of drug use in baseball, which has tarnished the ideal of a clean and fair game.

Harmon Killebrew was a renowned American professional baseball player who spent the majority of his career playing for the Washington Senators/Minnesota Twins franchise. He was known for his powerful hitting and was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1984. Throughout his career, Killebrew was respected for his sportsmanship and dedication to the game, making his views on the integrity of baseball highly influential.

The first part of the quote, "Anything that harms the integrity of the game is terrible," underscores Killebrew's unwavering commitment to preserving the purity and fairness of baseball. This sentiment aligns with the broader ethos of sportsmanship and ethical conduct within the realm of professional athletics. Killebrew's strong stance against anything that compromises the integrity of the game emphasizes the importance of maintaining a level playing field and upholding the principles of fair competition.

The second part of the quote, "We always thought we were immune to drugs in baseball, but we know that's not true anymore," acknowledges a significant issue that has plagued the sport of baseball – the use of performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs). Killebrew's recognition of this problem reflects a shift in the perception of drug use within the baseball community. For many years, the notion of drug use in baseball was often downplayed or dismissed, with a prevailing belief that the sport was immune to such issues. However, as scandals and revelations emerged, it became increasingly clear that drug use was indeed a part of the game, leading to a reevaluation of the sport's integrity.

Killebrew's statement serves as a candid acknowledgment of the challenges that baseball has faced regarding drug-related controversies. The impact of PEDs on the sport has been profound, affecting the credibility of records, the reputation of players, and the overall perception of the game. Killebrew's admission of this reality reflects a sense of disappointment and a desire to address the issue in a manner that aligns with the principles of fair play and integrity.

In summary, Harmon Killebrew's quote encapsulates his deep-seated belief in the importance of maintaining the integrity of the game of baseball. His words convey a strong sense of commitment to upholding the principles of fair competition and ethical conduct. Furthermore, his acknowledgment of the prevalence of drug use in baseball reflects a candid recognition of the challenges that have arisen within the sport. Ultimately, Killebrew's quote serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing importance of preserving the integrity of baseball and addressing issues that threaten its fundamental principles.