Cal Ripken Jr. has a different stance than many baseball fans when it comes to the impact of the steroid era in Major League Baseball. 

While many pundits and former players argue over the merits of who may or may not have juiced, the Hall of Fame shortstop looks on the bright side.

"If you're looking for one silver lining, this issue of steroids has caused the two groups to come together in unprecedented ways.  We haven't had a work stoppage and the collective bargaining agreement moves forward," Ripken said in an interview on 99.9 FM The Fan on Monday. 

He added, "Maybe it was the cloud of steroids that helped do that."

Ripken also discussed The Ripken Foundation, his thoughts on the Orioles' current team, and where his career path will turn next.

He did not rule out returning to Major League Baseball someday, but perhaps in a different capacity than one may assume.