San Francisco Giants: Willie Mays wants Barry Bonds in Hall of Fame
By David Hill
The San Francisco Giants honored Barry Bond prior to Saturday’s game against the Pittsburgh Pirates. During the festivities, Bonds picked up an important endorsement for the Hall of Fame.
The numbers that San Francisco Giants slugger Barry Bonds put together over the course of his career are staggering. He was a true five tool player, an incredible left fielder. While he is remembered for his 762 career home runs, 73 homers in 2001, and being the only member of the 400-400 and 500-500 clubs, Bonds also ranks first all time with 184 runs saved in left, and seventh with 157 assists. He was a player unlike any other, seemingly a lock for the Hall of Fame.
And yet, that has not happened. Due to PED allegations, as well as his presence in the BALCO scandal, Bonds remains outside of the Hall. Last year, in his sixth appearance on the ballot, Bonds garnered 56.4% of the vote, a decent total, but one that leaves him far from induction. With just four more years left, he still has a way to go for immortality.
Bonds does have an important voice in his corner. During the festivities honoring Bonds at AT&T Park, where his number 25 was finally retired, Willie Mays advocated for Bonds’ inclusion in the Hall.
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It is easy to understand why Mays would feel that way. Aside from familial obligations as Bonds’ godfather, the controversial slugger did put together an incredible resume. In addition to his statistical accomplishments, he was a 14 time All Star and a seven time MVP. Bonds won eight Gold Glove awards and 12 Silver Slugger awards. He was far more than a power hitter, holding the major league record for walks and won two batting titles.
The problem with his candidacy goes back to those PED allegation. He, along with Roger Clemens, have become the poster children for the Steroid Era. No matter what, there will be those who refuse to acknowledge their accomplishments, dismissing the historic production as the result of chemical enhancement.
Eventually, the voters will need to confront the emerging elephant in the room that is Bonds candidacy. He never actually failed a PED test, making his inclusion in such a category mere speculation. As one of the greatest players in the history of the game, Bonds deserves enshrinement, as Mays advocated.
dark. Next. Bonds without the hullabaloo
The San Francisco Giants honored Barry Bonds on Saturday. It is time for his greatness to be recognized, and his induction into the Hall of Fame to happen.