No. There is no evidence that players who use smokeless tobacco have an edge on those who do not.

Using smokeless tobacco increases your heart rate and blood pressure within a few minutes. This can cause a buzz or rush, but the rise in pulse and blood pressure places an extra stress on your heart that may reduce your overall stamina.

Studies have found that smokeless tobacco does not improve athletes' reaction time, movement time, or total response time.

And, in an anonymous poll of major and minor league players who were using smokeless tobacco or who had quit, not a single player said he thought dipping or chewing sharpened his reflexes or improved his game.

Most said they dipped or chewed for "something to do," out of habit, because they were "hooked," as a ritual, as a way to relax, or because it was "part of the game."

Once you're "hooked" on chewing tobacco or snuff, you may notice withdrawal reactions when you go too long without a dip or a chew. But if you quit, these reactions will last just a week or two. In the long run, you're going to feel better, and stronger- free of the need for tobacco.

"Quitting didn't hurt my performance in any way. I feel better. More in control. All around better. My lungs, my wind, my appetite are better. And now I can taste my food." (Danny Darwin, Red Sox)

Texas Ranger Nolan Ryan and Astro Mike Scott, former dippers, agree. They report that quitting did not hurt their on-field performance. ("A Warning to Chew On," M. Madden, Boston Globe, March 14,1987)

"I know it doesn't enhance my performance." (Andy Van Slyke, Pirates)

"I'm sure it doesn't help me on the field. It's just a bad habit." (Tim Wallach, Expos)