AJC > Sports > Columnists > Archives > 2006 > May > 28 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USBonds’ 715 embarrasses baseball
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Jeff Schultz
Barry Bonds was in Milwaukee recently and the commissioner of baseball wouldn’t make the 10-minute drive from his house to watch him. So it follows that Bud Selig wasn’t in when Bonds moved past Babe Ruth on the home run list.
Nor were any of Ruth’s children. Nor any high-level officials. Nor anybody whose presence screamed, “I’m important, so I’m here.”
Barry Bonds hit his 715th home run Sunday. But every overblown ESPN news break-in couldn’t drown out the sad reality of the moment. It was as awkward as it was historical. Some wanted to watch. Most wanted to cover their eyes.
This wasn’t a player punctuating greatness. This was the most vilified sports star we’ve ever seen affirming his place among the five darkest moments in baseball history.
Count them. Like plagues:
- Eight members of the Chicago White Sox are banned for conspiring to throw the 1919 World Series.
- Pete Rose, the game’s greatest hitter, agrees to a lifetime ban for betting — on baseball.
- Baseball cancels the 1994 World Series, not because of natural disaster but rather mutant labor negotiators.
- Congress holds steroid hearings. Among the Murderers Row giving testimony: Mark McGwire, Sammy Sosa, Rafael Palmeiro and Jose Canseco — who ironically turns out to be baseball’s shining light.
Bonds passes the great Ruth and closes in on the great Hank Aaron. But he’s the poster child of the steroid era, and his baggage and personality have led him to become the sport’s greatest pox instead of ambassador.
This is a sport that embraces its heroes and statistical achievements. Numbers are dipped in gold. 56. 61. .400. 714. 755.
Now here comes a man who puts up incredible numbers and few outside of San Francisco want to celebrate. Selig said weeks ago he wouldn’t show up for 715. Hold the pomp, shelve the circumstance. Selig would close his eyes and pretend it didn’t happen. There’s an old country-western tune that applies here: “If the phone don’t ring, you know it’s me.”
The NFL had a vested interest in helping reshape Ray Lewis’ image after his Atlanta murder trial. The NBA needed Kobe Bryant to be a smiling pitchman again after rape charges were dropped.
Baseball isn’t moving to resuscitate Bonds. His image couldn’t be saved by “House.” He is impossible to like. A fan catches a home run ball. Bonds refuses a request to sign the ball but asks the fan to sign a release so he could use his likeness on his TV show. This is the sport’s ambassador?
Frogs, locusts, diseased cattle.
Gambling, strikes, steroids.
It’s all relative.
Embarrassment: The “Black” Sox scandal is still debated 87 years later. It has kept “Shoeless” Joe Jackson out of the Hall of Fame. Rose was never accused of throwing a game. He just gutted its integrity by betting and lying about it. The all-time hits leader was thrown out and isn’t in the Hall.
Embarrassment: Fans have learned to hate two words: collective bargaining. But nothing in the long, inglorious history of labor woes equals the cancellation of the 1994 World Series. Owners and players couldn’t figure out how to divide millions.
Embarrassment: Steroids have tainted this entire era of players. Bonds just happens to be the leader in the pharmacy. For baseball to strip him or any player of their statistics is nonsensical. What of the steroid-using pitchers Bonds homered off of? Do two druggies cancel each other out? How to determine which homers were drug-aided and which weren’t? It’s a futile exercise. But we know what steroids have done to the record book. Not players. Steroids.
Bonds says he doesn’t care what people say or think. If that were true, he wouldn’t be trying to reshape his image on TV. ESPN was only too happy to sell itself out, giving Bonds a time slot and a blank script for a weekly 30-minute soliloquy called, “Bonds on Bonds.”
My wife and I watched the other night. There was tape of Philadelphia fans booing Bonds as he stepped to the plate.
“Why are they booing him?” my wife asked. “There’s steroids in hot dogs and Babe Ruth ate those.”
My wife. Funny girl.
Bonds juiced because he was jealous. Relying on interviews, documents and grand jury testimony in the book, “Game of Shadows,” authors alleged that Bonds decided to turn to muscle drugs after witnessing the attention paid to the McGwire-Sosa home run chase in 1998.
Follow the growth. Bonds averaged 31.8 home runs from 1986 to 1999. He averaged 51.6 from 2000 to 2004, including 73 in 2001. He hit one home run every 16 at-bats in his first 14 seasons. He hit one every eight at-bats in his next five.
I know. Good hot dogs.
History views Ruth as a home run hitter. Bonds will be viewed as something far less. A lab creation.
There goes No. 715. Cover your eyes now.
Permalink | Comments (392) | Categories: Braves / MLB, Jeff Schultz
Comments
Commenting is now closed for this entry.
By gotigers72
May 28, 2006 07:11 PM | Link to this
I agree that he is an embarrassment to the game. The sad thing is he would have been a Hallof Famer without the juice. He just couldn’t stand it that McGuire and Sosa were getting more attention than him. I just hope he hangs ‘em up before he reaches 755. I guess it won’t matter, everybody knows anyway. Especially me.
By BP
May 28, 2006 07:16 PM | Link to this
What else can you say??? It’s a sad day for BaseBall!! I believe even GOD covered his eyes!!! Sorry Babe!!!
By Ben T. Wood
May 28, 2006 07:28 PM | Link to this
You got this one right… Bonds is nothing but pure slime with an ego.
And Selig… he is a weasel for not having the you know what to address it…
By billy
May 28, 2006 07:30 PM | Link to this
Give me a break.
You hit 715 and then we can talk.
By gdg73
May 28, 2006 07:34 PM | Link to this
To Hell with Babe Ruth. His performance was enhanced due to the fact that he never played against the best players (No Blacks, Hispanic or other International non-caucasian players). Just like the guy said before, Bonds was HOF material before this whole steroid issue came out (early to mid 1990’s). The problem with the mostly white media that covers baseball and sports in general is that they can’t stand it when a black athlete can basically tell them to go to hell, and they physically can’t do anything about it. The sportswriter then tries their damnest to destroy the player with the mighty pen. To be honest,Bonds probably will never pass Aaron and that’s probably fine with him. Concentrate on writing some decent articles about the Falcons.
By Del
May 28, 2006 07:35 PM | Link to this
A M E N ! !
By Boomer
May 28, 2006 07:35 PM | Link to this
I agree completely with both previous bloggers. I don’t see how even Bonds can honestly be proud of the “records” he’s set. Thanks, Hank Aaron, for being such a class act. I saw the Hammer play and was excited when he broke the Babe’s record. Too bad baseball fans have been cheated out of having that feeling this time around.
By charlie
May 28, 2006 07:39 PM | Link to this
Who cares? Since when did passing the guy in second place become note worthy?
By ADRIAN
May 28, 2006 07:40 PM | Link to this
REALLY, WHO CARES WHAT MANY OF YOU THINK. BONDS IS ONE OF THE GREATEST HITTERS OF OUR GENERATION, PERIOD. FOR SCHULTZ TO SAY THAT HE EMBARRASSED BASEBALL, CLAIMING THIS AS ONE OF THE DARKESS MOMENTS IN HISTORY, IS WAY OVERBLOWN. THE FACTS ARE AS SUCH; BONDS HAS NEVER TESTED POSITIVE FOR STEROID USE. I’M A BRAVES FAN AND I HAVE NEVER HATED HIM PERSONALLY, ONLY AS AN OPPOSING FAN BECAUSE HE WAS SO FANTASTIC. WHAT IS A DISGRACE IS THE DUKE UNIVERSITY LACROSSE TEAM, OR ARE WE SUPPOSED TO DISMISS THEM FOR SOME UNKNOWN REASON. PLEASE.
By ADRIAN
May 28, 2006 07:42 PM | Link to this
REALLY, WHO CARES WHAT MANY OF YOU THINK. BONDS IS ONE OF THE GREATEST HITTERS OF OUR GENERATION, PERIOD. FOR SCHULTZ TO SAY THAT HE EMBARRASSED BASEBALL, CLAIMING THIS AS ONE OF THE DARKESS MOMENTS IN HISTORY, IS WAY OVERBLOWN. THE FACTS ARE AS SUCH; BONDS HAS NEVER TESTED POSITIVE FOR STEROID USE. I’M A BRAVES FAN AND I HAVE NEVER HATED HIM PERSONALLY, ONLY AS AN OPPOSING FAN BECAUSE HE WAS SO FANTASTIC. WHAT IS A DISGRACE IS THE DUKE UNIVERSITY LACROSSE TEAM, OR ARE WE SUPPOSED TO DISMISS THEM FOR SOME UNKNOWN REASON. PLEASE.
By ma
May 28, 2006 07:43 PM | Link to this
Yeah, you are right who cares babe ruth lost that record in 74. So what I am saying is why does people keep saying “babe’s record”? Let is die please Hank is the homer KING.
By Jonathan
May 28, 2006 07:50 PM | Link to this
Since Jesus died and made you Chief Judge my comments are just get over it. Until it is proven otherwise he is still innocent. I just wonder what was your comments when Henry Aaron apporoached and passed the last white hope the babe!
By yosh
May 28, 2006 07:56 PM | Link to this
Its too bad that in this time, that a person is determined to be guilty based on anecdotal information. It still is quite an accomplishment,no matter what.
By Brian
May 28, 2006 07:56 PM | Link to this
Alright, I am sick and tired of the race card being played in regards to Bonds. Unforturate for him he was the center of a steriods investigation. Mark McGwire and Raffe Palmerio are scum just like Bonds. Today is one of the top five black days of baseball. If he ever catches the HOME RUN KING HANK AARON (not Ruth)it will be the sadest day in baseball history. Secondly, I am tired of the commett steriods doesn’t help you hit home runs. That arguement is crap. Steroids enhances you ability to act and react, so it does help. I hope that Bonds is banned from the Hall of Fame. If he wasn’t such a jealous human being he would of been in the Hall no doubt. Barry you are not only a disgrace to baseball but to every kid learning how to play a sport.
By Mony
May 28, 2006 07:59 PM | Link to this
The Babe is “The Babe” and there won’t be another. Nuf said………..
By bob
May 28, 2006 08:00 PM | Link to this
Last time I checked, steroids don’t effect eyesight. To hit homeruns, you must first make contact. Juiced or not, he is one of the games greatest HITTERS. Maybe not the homerun king or anything, but still a damn good hitter.
By Jacob
May 28, 2006 08:03 PM | Link to this
Barry Bonds’s race didn’t make him an a*****. It also didn’t make him a liar, or a cheater. If he were to state that steriod use was his choice as a competant, adult, world-class athlete, and that baseball owes it’s late 90’s revitalization to juiced up players, and those in power knew it at the time, he’d garner far more respect than he does now for lying and whining about it every chance he gets. I just don’t by the race thing. McGwire is a joke after his testimony, as is Palmero and Canseco as a result of their antics. None of ‘em black. People could care less about Bonds’s race. We don’t like him cause he’s a a*****.
By brian
May 28, 2006 08:03 PM | Link to this
Bob,
I don’t deny that Bonds is a damn good hitter. Steroids may not affect your eyesight but you still have to swing the bat and that’s with your body…including muscles.
By Sara
May 28, 2006 08:05 PM | Link to this
It seems that writers are hostile toward Bonds. Writers that concern themselves and create all the hateful sarcastic stories have a lynch mob mentality without the rope; instead they try to use their pens to spin and destroy Bonds accomplishments.
By bob
May 28, 2006 08:06 PM | Link to this
Brian
It also doesn’t affect your ability to act and react; it just builds muscle. I’ve often heard that using steroids is unhealthy because the muscle builds too quickly for the body, resulting in a blowout or a pull. My question is: Has this ever happened to Barry? (Honestly I don’t know and that’s why I ask).
By BigWill
May 28, 2006 08:07 PM | Link to this
The sad thing about Bonds is what all those chemicals have done to his body. He can hardly run, he looks horrible at the plate and he’s shrinking! He doesn’t deserve someof his accolades but the previous blogger was right, he was HOF before he discovered the “juice”. Also, it must be pointed out, he has always brought a lot of the bad will upon himself. Even before the ‘roids, he wasn’t a pleasant person.
By ADRIAN
May 28, 2006 08:07 PM | Link to this
KUDOS TO AJC.COM FOR, ONE AGAIN, LETTING THEIR WRITERS MAKE THEM LOOK LIKE IDIOTS WITH THER ASININE COMMENTARY. THE FIRST HEADING ON THE SPORTS PAGE I SEE IS “BONDS AN EMBARRASSMENT”. WHO APPROVED THAT ARTICLE HEADER! PROBABLY THE SAME MORON WHO APPROVED EVERY NEGATIVE ARTICLE ABOUT ANY SENSATIONAL BLACK ATHLETE WHO DIDN’T PUT THEM ON A PEDESTAL. THE MEDIA, IS AND ALWAYS WILL BE, COMPLETELY FLAWED. YOU JEALOUS CLOWNS NEED TO GROW UP. MAN, I FEEL SORRY FOR PUJOLS, THINKING OF THE DEFAMATION HE’LL GO THROUGH APPROACHING THESE HOMERUN RECORDS.
By DHD
May 28, 2006 08:07 PM | Link to this
Babe Ruth won almost 100 games as a pitcher in 5 seasons. How many HRs would he have hit had he not done that?. The Babe is the greatest player of all time when you consider his total career.
By bob
May 28, 2006 08:12 PM | Link to this
DHD
Could’ve, would’ve, should’ve… The point is you can’t change history. Even if Bonds took steroids, there weren’t exactly rules against it. Point is, you can’t change history.
By Stephen
May 28, 2006 08:12 PM | Link to this
In the grand scheme of things, Barry Bonds, cheater that he may be, doesn’t matter. That said, I think its unfortunate that his 715* home run came today, on Memorial Day, when there are far more important matters we could be focusing on as a nation.
Yes, I used the asterick.:)
By Jay
May 28, 2006 08:14 PM | Link to this
Barry Bonds this, Barry Bonds that. Blah, blah, blah, blah, blah, blah, blah.
I would like to see Jeff Schultz go out and hit at least 1 home run. Which is a snowball chance in hell. The problem with most sports writers is that they’re upset because they never even played the sport. Just come to grips with Bonds is the second minority player to break Ruth’s so-called historical record. But brace yourself Schultz, there will be another.
Nuff said
By Matt
May 28, 2006 08:15 PM | Link to this
C-H-E-A-T-E-R!!!!
Hank didn’t cheat, Bonds had to - his records will be erased b/c they really aren’t “records”. C-H-E-A-T-E-R!
Bonds would be 300 hr’s behind if it wasn’t for STEROIDS.
By Jay
May 28, 2006 08:15 PM | Link to this
Barry Bonds this, Barry Bonds that. Blah, blah, blah, blah, blah, blah, blah.
I would like to see Jeff Schultz go out and hit at least 1 home run. Which is a snowball chance in hell. The problem with most sports writers is that they’re upset because they never even played the sport. Just come to grips with Bonds is the second minority player to break Ruth’s so-called historical record. But brace yourself Schultz, there will be another.
Nuff said
By jay
May 28, 2006 08:16 PM | Link to this
Barry Bonds this, Barry Bonds that. Blah, blah, blah, blah, blah, blah, blah.
I would like to see Jeff Schultz go out and hit at least 1 home run. Which is a snowball chance in hell. The problem with most sports writers is that they’re upset because they never even played the sport. Just come to grips with Bonds is the second minority player to break Ruth’s so-called historical record. But brace yourself Schultz, there will be another.
Nuff said
By bob
May 28, 2006 08:16 PM | Link to this
Technically speaking, Memorial Day is MAY 30 for those of you who don’t know (established cerca 1868). It was changed to the last Monday in May (tomorrow) in 1971 so we could have a 3 day weekend.
By maya lucia
May 28, 2006 08:17 PM | Link to this
baseball?
who cares?
let’s get into some world cup soccer!!!
By ma
May 28, 2006 08:19 PM | Link to this
Yeah, you are right who cares babe ruth lost that record in 74. So what I am saying is why does people keep saying “babe’s record”? Let is die please Hank is the homer KING.
By Lorie
May 28, 2006 08:20 PM | Link to this
It is a shame that Bonds is even mentioned with the other great names. Did he not think that people would notice his sudden change in size and production? It is a very sad day, but we still have hope that he will not pass Hamerin’ Hank!
By gdg73
May 28, 2006 08:20 PM | Link to this
The “race card” could have never been played if it was never put into the deck, and that was done long ago. If everyone was looked at equally, it wouldn’t be an issue.
On another topic, look at Roger Clemens. How old is he again? He’s pitching just as good now or better than he was 20 years ago. I guess that can be attributed to “good ole clean living” down on his big a* ranch in Texas. This guy can do no wrong because he is a “media darling” therefore, he’s alright. Give me a break. Don’t p!$$ in my face and call it rain.
By Shellie
May 28, 2006 08:20 PM | Link to this
Funny, you can talk about anything you want unless that persons skin color is on the darker shade of Babe Ruth’s (whom, by the way was NOT white) - then, you get accused of being a racist. You uneducated MORONS - has nothing to do with skin color and everything to do with playing by the rules. Babe Ruth WAS NOT WHITE! At least do your homework, blackie.
By Ann in San Francisco
May 28, 2006 08:22 PM | Link to this
Babe Ruth is a baseball legend, Barry Bonds is an overgrown baby, undeserving of a page in a comic book, let alone history.
By Greene
May 28, 2006 08:22 PM | Link to this
I am a black man and hate it when people keep saying Bonds isn’t respected because he is black. Bonds isn’t respected because of the way he treats people. Of the major sports in the country, the majority of the great players are either black or of some other nationality other than white American. Pujols is one of the most respected players in the game today. When Sosa was fighting McGuire for the single season record, the nation was behind him as much as anyone. Michael Jordan with his gambling issues is the best ever for basketball. Leav race out of it with Bonds because no one has a leg to stand on with that argument. Bonds put himself in the hole that he is in as far as his reputation. He is a great hitter, but I think it will be bad for him to pass Aaron- oh wait I forgot to mention to all you folks that say Bonds keeps getting bad press cause he is black- he is chasing a black man’s record! Wake up people! The more you complain about racism that isn’t there, it makes people not want to listen to you when there is a valid complaint racism! Bonds himself has said bad things and racist remarks about other blacks in baseball, but no one has mentined that. We shouldn’t use race discussion for our own benefit. Let’s move on or we will never live in peace together. If you think Bonds is a good player, fine. If not, fine too. That’s all there is. Go Braves!!!
By Greene
May 28, 2006 08:23 PM | Link to this
I am a black man and hate it when people keep saying Bonds isn’t respected because he is black. Bonds isn’t respected because of the way he treats people. Of the major sports in the country, the majority of the great players are either black or of some other nationality other than white American. Pujols is one of the most respected players in the game today. When Sosa was fighting McGuire for the single season record, the nation was behind him as much as anyone. Michael Jordan with his gambling issues is the best ever for basketball. Leav race out of it with Bonds because no one has a leg to stand on with that argument. Bonds put himself in the hole that he is in as far as his reputation. He is a great hitter, but I think it will be bad for him to pass Aaron- oh wait I forgot to mention to all you folks that say Bonds keeps getting bad press cause he is black- he is chasing a black man’s record! Wake up people! The more you complain about racism that isn’t there, it makes people not want to listen to you when there is a valid complaint racism! Bonds himself has said bad things and racist remarks about other blacks in baseball, but no one has mentined that. We shouldn’t use race discussion for our own benefit. Let’s move on or we will never live in peace together. If you think Bonds is a good player, fine. If not, fine too. That’s all there is. Go Braves!!!
By Greene
May 28, 2006 08:23 PM | Link to this
I am a black man and hate it when people keep saying Bonds isn’t respected because he is black. Bonds isn’t respected because of the way he treats people. Of the major sports in the country, the majority of the great players are either black or of some other nationality other than white American. Pujols is one of the most respected players in the game today. When Sosa was fighting McGuire for the single season record, the nation was behind him as much as anyone. Michael Jordan with his gambling issues is the best ever for basketball. Leav race out of it with Bonds because no one has a leg to stand on with that argument. Bonds put himself in the hole that he is in as far as his reputation. He is a great hitter, but I think it will be bad for him to pass Aaron- oh wait I forgot to mention to all you folks that say Bonds keeps getting bad press cause he is black- he is chasing a black man’s record! Wake up people! The more you complain about racism that isn’t there, it makes people not want to listen to you when there is a valid complaint racism! Bonds himself has said bad things and racist remarks about other blacks in baseball, but no one has mentined that. We shouldn’t use race discussion for our own benefit. Let’s move on or we will never live in peace together. If you think Bonds is a good player, fine. If not, fine too. That’s all there is. Go Braves!!!
By Greene
May 28, 2006 08:25 PM | Link to this
I am a black man and hate it when people keep saying Bonds isn’t respected because he is black. Bonds isn’t respected because of the way he treats people. Of the major sports in the country, the majority of the great players are either black or of some other nationality other than white American. Pujols is one of the most respected players in the game today. When Sosa was fighting McGuire for the single season record, the nation was behind him as much as anyone. Michael Jordan with his gambling issues is the best ever for basketball. Leav race out of it with Bonds because no one has a leg to stand on with that argument. Bonds put himself in the hole that he is in as far as his reputation. He is a great hitter, but I think it will be bad for him to pass Aaron- oh wait I forgot to mention to all you folks that say Bonds keeps getting bad press cause he is black- he is chasing a black man’s record! Wake up people! The more you complain about racism that isn’t there, it makes people not want to listen to you when there is a valid complaint racism! Bonds himself has said bad things and racist remarks about other blacks in baseball, but no one has mentined that. We shouldn’t use race discussion for our own benefit. Let’s move on or we will never live in peace together. If you think Bonds is a good player, fine. If not, fine too. That’s all there is. Go Braves!!!
By uga4ever
May 28, 2006 08:26 PM | Link to this
The Babe was and still is baseball. He was the best pitcher in the league and the best hitter. He hit more homeruns in one year than 11 major league teams hit. Anyone involved in baseball will say that the “Babe” is king of baseball.. hands down. To BOB- hand/eye coordination is great in baseball but it takes much more than that. Hand/eye coordination is needed in any sport…so don’t use that justification please. If Barry would have walked away like Big Mac, then it would have all died down. He will not catch Hank, and he is bringing the rest of this on himself and his family. I don’t think that he is having to work to “put food on the table.” He should have walked away, and he would still be considered one of the best. Now, we can’t say the same.
By Boomer
May 28, 2006 08:26 PM | Link to this
Okay…I will certainly concede that there are people who don’t like/support Bonds because he is black. But I truly believe that the majority of baseball fans dislike him and don’t want him to pass Ruth and Aaron for other reasons. Number 1 on the list is that most believe Bonds cheated by using steroids. Most feel the same about McGuire, Sosa, Palmeiro and Giambi. The number 2 reason is that most people like their heroes to be just a little humble and a lot personable [things that Bonds has never been accused of].
By Quick
May 28, 2006 08:27 PM | Link to this
U mean to tell me,all I have to do is take a few Steroids and I will be great Hitter like Bonds>>>> Please >>> U haters of Barry need o get a life>> The Man is a great baseball player >> now live with it>> and no he is not a Great spokesperson>> but that not his Job>>> Last I check>> his job is to hit HomeRuns>> and there is only 1 person who can say they can do better than >>> Bonds>>thats Mr. Bond to U and that tried statement
By RTL
May 28, 2006 08:27 PM | Link to this
Jeff, you’re correct and will you people ever get past race. God help me that is so lame. It’s sad and sick. Worst of all if we don’t speak out now and long into the future people will forget what this is all about. It’s a sad day, not because of his race, but because he cheated. Period.
By Scott
May 28, 2006 08:29 PM | Link to this
Mr. Schultz, you need to wake up a little. Several Baseball players, minor league and major league have tested positive for steroids. Barry Bonds has never tested positive for steroids, believe me he has been tested (several times). No big deal needed to be made for breaking the second place person in the all time home run lead. That is like saying, that was wrong the way they treated Dominique when he went to number 25 on all time scoring, the person who was number 25’s family should have been there. When he breaks Hank Aaron and has never failed a steroid test administered by major league baseball. Then, yes, we shall celebrate the best hitter in baseball.
By uga4ever
May 28, 2006 08:29 PM | Link to this
The Babe was and still is baseball. He was the best pitcher in the league and the best hitter. He hit more homeruns in one year than 11 major league teams hit. Anyone involved in baseball will say that the “Babe” is king of baseball.. hands down. To BOB- hand/eye coordination is great in baseball but it takes much more than that. Hand/eye coordination is needed in any sport…so don’t use that justification please. If Barry would have walked away like Big Mac, then it would have all died down. He will not catch Hank, and he is bringing the rest of this on himself and his family. I don’t think that he is having to work to “put food on the table.” He should have walked away, and he would still be considered one of the best. Now, we can’t say the same
By uga4ever
May 28, 2006 08:31 PM | Link to this
Bottom line is- He claims that this is “killing my family” He is worth 179 million dollars (Forbes Mag.) He should have just walked away. If his family meant that much to him….. WHY?????
By Bigdawg
May 28, 2006 08:32 PM | Link to this
I would like to say you guys that are saying that Babe Ruth never played against black players is a true statement but it was not Babe Ruth’s fault however Barry Bonds knew he was taking the steriods. I have no problem with Hank Aaron being the homerun king (just in case you didn’t know Hank is BLACK) but I do have a problem with Barry being recognized as one of the two best power hitters ever when it was the steriods that made Barry a bigtime power hitter. Barry Bonds was already a great player and a good power hitter before the steriods as has already been stated on this blog a certain hall of famer but the fact of the matter is that like Mcgwire, Sosa, and Palmeiro he and countless others cheated using steriods. Hank Aaron weighed about 175 Babe Ruth weighed well there is no telling what the babe weighed but it wasn’t a muscular weight so we know that both of them were clean and hit their homeruns with God given ability instead of with a synthetic powersource. So Yes this is a bad day for baseball and if Bonds were anything but an egomaniac he would come out and say yes I cheated and I am sorry for what I have done.
By Scott
May 28, 2006 08:33 PM | Link to this
Mr. Schultz, you need to wake up a little. Several Baseball players, minor league and major league have tested positive for steroids. Barry Bonds has never tested positive for steroids, believe me he has been tested (several times). No big deal needed to be made for breaking the second place person in the all time home run lead. That is like saying, that was wrong the way they treated Dominique when he went to number 25 on all time scoring, the person who was number 25’s family should have been there. When he breaks Hank Aaron and has never failed a steroid test administered by major league baseball. Then, yes, we shall celebrate the best hitter in baseball.
By ruger13
May 28, 2006 08:34 PM | Link to this
Without taking time to get technical…steriods do enhance eyesight. Instead of posting stupid comments do a little research before you put your foot in your A**. Hank’s the king, Babe’s second and will always be. Cheat, cheat never beat.
By Don
May 28, 2006 08:38 PM | Link to this
Schultz finally gets one right. Bonds is long-time steroid cheat and a disgrace to the game.
I believe Bonds started cheating long before 1998. Take a look at the mediocre numbers he put up in his first 4 seasons: .265 batting average, about 20 home runs and 100+ strikeouts per season. His numbers took their first jump about the same time Palmeiro’s power numbers surged. Coincidence? I don’t think so. Find another great hitter in baseball history who was as ordinary for his first four full seasons as Bonds was, or find one whose power numbers jumped after four seasons like Palmeiro’s did. The greats put up big numbers almost immediately. Ruth (when he became an outfielder), Gehrig, Foxx, Williams, Dimaggio, Mantle, Mays, Aaron, Robinson, McCovey, Killebrew, Griffey Jr., A-Rod, Pujols, etc. Every one of them was putting up big numbers within a year of coming into the big leagues (allowing for years missed with injuries or in the military).
Look at Bonds’ numbers by season and it’s hard not to suspect that he started doping around 1990 and then went on to even heavier stuff around 1998. Baseball writers keep dividing Bonds’ career into 2 parts when the numbers clearly show it should be 3 parts.
I believe that without the juice Barry Bonds would have had a career about like his father’s. Good, but not Hall of Fame quality.
By t
May 28, 2006 08:40 PM | Link to this
Schultz you are a racist jerk. Get over it Bonds is better.
By Braves Fan
May 28, 2006 08:41 PM | Link to this
Some feel that any criticism of Bonds is racist. Hmmm, try getting some therapy for that misplaced anger. On the other hand it seems that many baseball fans respect and admire Aaron and Ruth because they played the game with integrity and by the rules. The same can’t be said for Bonds, who also suffers from the personality of a toad, and others of these shameful steroid years in MLB. Get over it.
By ruger13
May 28, 2006 08:42 PM | Link to this
Without taking time to get technical…steriods do enhance eyesight. Instead of posting stupid comments do a little research before you put your foot in your A**. Hank’s the king, Babe’s second and will always be. Cheat, cheat never beat.
By Dre (Atlanta)
May 28, 2006 08:47 PM | Link to this
This is just the weirdest thing. All around America everyone wants to cry out… innocent until proven gulity! Bonds has passed every test they have given him. Now, i am no saying that Bonds did not use steroids, but the truth of the matter is… there is NO SMOKING GUN to prove him gulity! NONE! All I have heard is a bunch of jealous people who hate bonds, a disgruntle mistress that didn’t get what she wanted, two reporters that saw $$$ in writing a book, and a very disgruntle media because Bonds will not act right for them that have made NOTHING but actusations! WOW! The Congress can convine anything they wish… they will never get a convication. Bud can sit in high chair like a little baby crying pretending that he is not celebrating Bonds passing Ruth all he wants… ALL OF YOU ARE HATERS! I’m not even a Bonds fan and I know this is a BUNCH OF CRAP! No one has proven anything and you have already put him in the electric chair. This is all because Bonds is BLACK and he is passing your beloved RUTHIE! This is an example of rasicm in your face! The ONLY people I heard bashing bonds are WHITE MEDIA PERSONNEL!! Bonds is playing baseball to win games for san Fran… not for you to like him. Like him or hate him… BONDS IS THE GREATEST HOME RUN HITTER OF HIS ERA! All of you just speculate (NO PROOF) that Bonds is on steroids, but steriods do not hit home runs. Yeah, yeah they bulk up your muscle mass, but do that mean you hit home runs? NO! How do any of you know if Hank Aaron wasn’t juiced? How do you know that Babe Ruth wasn’t juiced? How do you know? You don’t! There were no test done and if there were test done they passed them… guess who also passed the test??? You got it.. BONDS!
By Steve
May 28, 2006 08:47 PM | Link to this
Bonds is a pathetic example of ego gone mad, but thousands of kids will idolize him for his numbers. To hell with him. As a kid, I remember watching Hammerin’ Hank and the other sluggers of the late 60s and early 70s pound balls into the seats with what God and a strong work ethic gave them. Anybody who uses a shortcut deservres no recognition whatsoever.
Anything connected with Barry Bonds in the baseball record books should be marked with an asterisk. Or better yet, a syringe.
By gobraves06
May 28, 2006 08:52 PM | Link to this
I don’t care what anybody says, I will never recognize Bonds’ records, nor any of McGwire’s or Sosa’s. In my opinion, 61 is still the single-season home run record. And 755 will always be the all-time record in my view. Bonds does not deserve all of the attention he is getting. This is exactly what he wanted, so I say we all just ignore him and his “records.”
By jake
May 28, 2006 08:55 PM | Link to this
anyone who plays the race card in this is a* big an a** as barry is
By Jay
May 28, 2006 08:58 PM | Link to this
715*
Now go buy me a house in arizona.
By Paul
May 28, 2006 09:00 PM | Link to this
Thank you Greene for speaking the truth. I am a white man and even though i dont think Bonds deserves the home run crown, neither do i think McGuire, Sosa, Palmiero etc deserve the accolades they received at the time. It has ZERO to do with Bonds/black, Ruth/white- for GODS SAKE Ruth has been dead 50 years. Anyone who thinks i feel the way i do because of racial reasons is way off base.
By Jimmy
May 28, 2006 09:00 PM | Link to this
Hey sports writer, can you hit a fast ball coming at you at 95mph? How about a curve ball at 80 mph? Can you visually see a baseball as it leaves the pitcher hand and make the corresponding adjustments in speed and placement of the bat? Steriods will make you run faster. I’m no biochemist, but I will go out on a limb and say, I don’t believe steriods are going to improve your hand and eye coordinations. Those steroids will make you strong as an ox, but there are some things only God can bless a person with. You must dislike Barry Bonds because he has done something terribly bad to you are your family. I seriously doubt it.
By JJMB
May 28, 2006 09:03 PM | Link to this
Babe Ruth is the greatest baseball player of all time. His records speak for themselves. He completely dominated the sport as a pitcher and hitter.
Bonds, McGwire, Sosa, Palmiero, Canseco, are all abominations. They are unclean, chemically created impostors. Their achievements will always be tainted.
By BulldawgMBA
May 28, 2006 09:09 PM | Link to this
The acrimony toward Barry Bonds has nothing to do with his race. It has everything to do with his poor, self-centered, ego-centric attitude and his steroid use that has allowed him to challenge longstanding and revered homerun records. I was only 3 when Hank Aaron passed the Babe. I have the greatest respect for The Hammer’s accomplishment. He was a hard-nosed, consistent ball player. He earned his title as the Major League home run king the old fashioned way - through hard work without the assistance of steroids. I hope all the record books put a big ole ASTERISK by Barry Bonds’ name acknowleging he is a cheating, steroid enhanced freak and a really pathetic human being.
By JJMB
May 28, 2006 09:20 PM | Link to this
I meant to add Ken Caminiti. He was a great guy, generous, MVP, good friend to some people I knew….but a steroid user.
By Stacey
May 28, 2006 09:20 PM | Link to this
I am disappointed that someone who obviously used performance enhancing drugs to move onto a performance level with baseball players like Ruth, Mantle, Williams, Mays, Maris and Aaron can receive any positive credits for his general moral ineptitude. He has given another black-eye to a sport that needs players to serve as role models and inspiration to America’s youth. Blame a union, black bigotry and liberal media for this atrocity on what was once our national past-time. Should Bonds break the Aaron home run mark, I hope there is a hope out there, whether it be black, white, Japanese, latino, or any race that will lend credibility to the redord. Barry Bonds has not ! He, McGwire and Sosa were a disgrace to baseball along with some others who will eventually pay the piper.
By Dallas Fan
May 28, 2006 09:21 PM | Link to this
Barry Bonds is a cheater. He admitted he used steroids. Let’s remember “..I thought it was the clear and the cream.” That is the tip of his steroid usage and the entire era from 1995 to 2004 is suspect. Sosa, Bonds, McGwire, Paleirmo, Giambi Let’s remember one thing about Babe Ruth and the comments of a previous poster who says Ruth never played against the great African-American or Latino players. True statement, but during his era in the late 1910’s, 20’s and 30’s Ruth was the dominant player of his time. Also, Ruth’s first four years were as a pitcher and he dominated the game in such a fashion as both a hitter and pitcher, the Boston Red Sox made him an outfielder. His record as a pitcher was 94-46 with a 2.28 era and had be continued as a pitcher, most baseball historians say he would have been compared to Walter Johnson, Cy Young and other greats of that era. Think about that, Ruth changed positions in the forth year of his career and when he wasn’t pitching in 1919 for Boston, he was playing the outfield. Pete Rose has been banned from baseball for life for betting and is not eligible for the Hall of Fame. The evidence on Bonds and his steroid usage is pretty clear and if he is indicted and found guilty of tax evasion — he too should be put on the ineligible list. I didnt feel this way until I read the book and became convinced, Barry Bonds brought this on himself.
By domeOFpain
May 28, 2006 09:22 PM | Link to this
Today was a great day. I purchased the MLB package so I could catch every Giants game to see it live. 715! Now, the great Barry only looks up to Hank. Barry, you are truly one the greatest baseball players to ever grace a field.
By Steve
May 28, 2006 09:25 PM | Link to this
It’s funny how we can’t criticize Bonds for cheating because he is Black. His numbers after the age of 37 speak loud and clear. Stop hiding behind race on every issue and try looking at the facts. So, let’s get this straight. The media and fans are more upset with Bonds because he is Black than using steroids. Henry Aaron was a man of grace and character who actually holds the home run record and deserves to keep it. Aaron knows more about racism than anybody posting on this board. Barry Bonds is a disgrace to the game and has been a disgrace to fans for 20 years. Hiding behind race in this instance reflects the cowardice of this man. Racism has nothing to do with this cheat. Crying race in this issue devalues legitimate areas of where race is truly an issue. Shame on all who think Barry is being blasted by the public because of race. In case you all forgot, the man who holds the record is a Black man of great dignity. What excuses will you use when he closes in on Aaron? How about this novel concept…come up with a new excuse…this one is really old.
By titothebear
May 28, 2006 09:30 PM | Link to this
Bonds will, probably, be indicted for purgery and for income tax evasion. That he is a scumbag is already known and documented. His records, should he be proved a steroic creation, should be expunged from the record books, just as the records of cheaters in track and field are viewed to have never happened. Sosa, Palmeiro, McGwire, Canseco and every other person whose baseball achievements were steroid dependent, once it is proven, should have those achievements removed from the record books. Bonds should be an embarassment to any race, particularly the human. As for the person who said to hell with Ruth and started bellowing about a brother being mistreated, get serious fool! The year Ruth hit sixty he had more homers than most other teams. When he retired in 1935, with 714, only two other players had hit as many as three hundred. Now, it is true that many fine ballplayers, who played in the Negro Leagues, were certainly capable of playing and pitching in the American or National Leagues and they were denied because of their color. This was totally wrong but Babe Ruth only played under this policy. He did not set i!. So, the hell with you and your racist garbage! Barry Bonds has been a pariah for years. When the indictments come down he will be in total disgrace! Hank Aaron worked for everything he got in baseball. He never hit fifty homers in one season and he never took any shortcuts. He is someone who gave everything he had and his work ethic got him into the record book at the head of the homer parade. He deserves to stay there. Cheaters, once found out, need to suffer the fate they so deserve, having their inflated numbers, not reduced, but eradicated. Justice!
By SHG
May 28, 2006 09:34 PM | Link to this
Any black person that think the “white” media is out to get Barry Bonds because of his race is living a brainwashed life. Bonds is a great hitter, but he is a cheater. Plain and simple, a cheater. That has nothing to do with race. He couldn’t hold Babe or Hank’s jock strap, as a man or as a ball player. Get a grip. And grow up! There is no white conspiracy hiding behind every shadow. Only reverse racism masking itself as pride!
By domeOFpain
May 28, 2006 09:35 PM | Link to this
Think back to when Hank first broke The Babe’s record. The same racis hate was being spit at Hank. You go Barry - they can’t keep a good man down. I am proud of you in every respect. You are a complete player, hitting, base stealing, gold gloves. You are da man!
By mike
May 28, 2006 09:35 PM | Link to this
The article by Jeff Shultz is a perfect example of how the media uses their power to decide who is hero and who is not. They tried everything they could(even Congress investigated Bond’s steroid use) to discredit Barry Bonds because they knew that his breaking of Babe Ruth’s record was inevitable. So what do you do when a guy you don’t like is the best at what he does and he is on the verge of becoming the very best of all time? You write an article and you title it “Bonds 715 Embarrasses Baseball” Dark Day for Baseball”.
Future record breakers need to take note of the message that is being sent. You can break the record of a legend, but only if we like you and you do it our way.
By Sonti
May 28, 2006 09:35 PM | Link to this
Barry Bonds beat Babe Ruth’s record get over it!
By Anita
May 28, 2006 09:37 PM | Link to this
The only shameful thing that happened today is the way YOU have treated a man who has never tested postive for any steroid in his career. Mr. Bonds, I applaud you for your performance, and continue to keep your head up!!!!
By Ms. Crabtree
May 28, 2006 09:38 PM | Link to this
Bonds’ record needs an asterisk because he used steroids. Yeah, he would still have been a great hitter without them, but at the very least steroids pushed 50-100 warning-track fly ball outs into the seats to make them homers. I don’t think his other stats are tainted by steroid use (even batting average would only be slightly tainted I think) but you would have to be a fool to think steroids didn’t help him hit more homers. Even if he didn’t knowingly take steroids, he has admitted to take them unknowingly, so he is guilty at the very least of complete foolishness for not knowing what he put into his own body.
With that being said, Bonds’ records are no more tainted than Ruth’s. Sure, Ruth didn’t ask to play against only white American players, but when you are talking about historical significance you have to take that into consideration as well. I don’t think 714 should be celebrated regardless, not because Bonds is a cheater, but because it is still 2nd place. I can’t remember when I last saw people making such a big deal about 2nd place. Ruth and 714 means nothing — make a big deal when Bonds passes Aaron. Aaron’s mark is the one that matters, and the one I hope still stands when Bonds’ career is over.
By Ant
May 28, 2006 09:38 PM | Link to this
HALL OF FAME and greatest hitter of his generation, period, asterisk or whatever else you want to call it!!! It is sadly ironic how the famous phrase “it’s only cheatin if you get caught” applies to everyone EXCEPT Barry Bonds, who by the way, has never tested positive for anything and yet, continues to perform at a high level even amidst all the crap surrounding him! To all of you that call the guy scum and all these other personal attacks; that comes from some place else inside of you that you need to work on. Surly or not, he’s never raped a woman or beaten a child so get your perspectives in order. Just because of his super human feats he does not give you the right to treat him as less than a human being.
By The Truth
May 28, 2006 09:39 PM | Link to this
I’m, frankly, tired of hearing about Bonds and I’m even more tired of the over-blown publicity he has gotten on ESPN. Thank god they have finally come to their senses and taken that “Bonds on Bonds” crap off the station…a publicity stunt gone wrong. Everytime I watched an episode it only confirmed what I think about Bonds - he is a arrogant a* and a pompous P*. Throw the race card whining out the window, baseball fans would cheer Bonds if he came across as a likeable, friendly person. Pujols WILL NOT get the kind of treatment Bonds has gotten because he doesn’t bring it on himself. Anyone who denies Bonds having used steroids is obviously naieve or blind. He came into the league at 185 lbs. and look at him now: a forehead like melon and an upper body that DOES NOT come about in your late 30s from just doing some extra lifting. He is a heck of a hitter and Hall of Famer, but would not have gotten to this point without some extra juice, period.
By titothebear
May 28, 2006 09:42 PM | Link to this
jimmy,
An interesting side-effect of Human Growth Hormone, which Bonds injected himself with, is it improves eye sight.
By Boomer
May 28, 2006 09:42 PM | Link to this
To the people out there who keep saying white people are mad because Bonds passed Ruth…again, some may be. However, Henry Aaron now holds the record for most MLB homeruns and has for over 30 years. The majority of people who are “against” Bonds simply don’t want one of baseball’s crown-jewel records broken by questionable means. To me, Maris’s 61 homers is still the single-season record in light of the fact that McGuire cheated too. I don’t have anything against records being broken but I’d like to at least think it was done honestly.
By Gene
May 28, 2006 09:46 PM | Link to this
Regardless of how many homers Bonds hits, he will still enter middle age with a bloated body and knees that ache every time he moves. He will be asking himself for the rest of his steroid-shortened life if it was worth it.
By Phillyphan#1
May 28, 2006 09:47 PM | Link to this
All u racist, slow azz , wish you were atlethic losers. Do you need cheese with that whine.
By Phillyphan#1
May 28, 2006 09:50 PM | Link to this
All u racist, slow azz , wish you were atlethic losers. Do you need cheese with that whine.
By Don
May 28, 2006 09:53 PM | Link to this
Pitchers use steroids. Hundreds, if not thousands of other hitters have used steroids. None of them have come CLOSE to accomplishing what this man has done. Ty Cobb (from NE Georgia) was a complete and total racist, but that has nothing to do with his playing ability. Bonds will never win Mr. Congeniality, but that has nothing to do with how well he hits the ball. Ted Williams was as thin as they come and hit .521. He also wrote the best book on hitting available and nowhere attributed power hitting to muscle. Instead, a hitter must know the pitcher, identify the pitch as it leaves the pitcher’s hand, and put the bat on the ball. Steroids will not help your memory, knowledge, eyesight, or hand-eye coordination, all of which Barry has in extreme quantities.
The purists would have an argument if either (1) few other hitters used steroids (not true), (2) few pitchers used steroids (not true), (3) steroids improved your ability to hit (not true - even the power improvement is debated among sabermetrics experts- look it up), or (4) power numbers were stagnant over Barry’s increase in power (not true - HR numbers are up dramatically over the past 5-10 years). Unfortunately, none of these are true. Until we have conclusive evidence, not just the hearsay and speculation of reporters trying to sell a book(sorry, but they aren’t all honest either - Jeff Schultz excluded of course), everyone can get off Barry’s back.
By RTL
May 28, 2006 09:54 PM | Link to this
Jeff, you’re correct and will you people ever get past race. God help me that is so lame. It’s sad and sick. Worst of all if we don’t speak out now and long into the future people will forget what this is all about. It’s a sad day, not because of his race, but because he cheated. Period.
By BE
May 28, 2006 09:54 PM | Link to this
Bonds is not pure evil, as many folks would have you believe. That he does have a-hole tendencies is something that few, probably including himself, would deny. The fact is that he saw lesser hitters breaking records through the use of steroids. He is the greatest hitter of our generation, period. Without steroids, he would be be maybe 100-150 homers short of his current record. The bottom line is that he is the best of our time, but he (and several others) would never have had the numbers they have without the use of drugs. We all know that. He knows that. If only he could come to admit it. That is something I could definitely respect. I guess I’m just a sucker for someone that tells the truth, as painful as it may be. Everyone makes mistakes, and many break the rules at one time or another. It’s a damned shame that the cover up has eclipsed the real story: We have witnessed one of the one of the greatest that has ever playyed the game.
By Don
May 28, 2006 09:58 PM | Link to this
And another thing…since when is America so caught up on busting athletes who allegedly have used performance enhancing drugs? There is an equal amount of “evidence” on Lance Armstrong and Barry Bonds, but noone outside of Europe is calling for Lance to give up his Tour de France titles.
By War Eagle
May 28, 2006 09:59 PM | Link to this
Greene, very well written, 73, you need to journey back to school or something to take Racism 101. Why white writers kill Bonds, black, trying to break a record by Aaron, black, Bonds is a solid LOSER IN PUBLIC EYE OF BASEBALL.
By rj
May 28, 2006 09:59 PM | Link to this
I am so tired of all of the speculation surrounding an athlete who never tested positive for steriods. Bonds may not be a “fan’s” player but he did hit 715. Can you do that?
By GATECH
May 28, 2006 10:01 PM | Link to this
Man, this whole situation sucks. I personally do not like Bonds, but at the same time there has been no proof of his cheating. Bonds attitude is cocky and crap towards media - but who cares - the media are a bunch of a-holes most of the time [read Chomsky’s Manufacturing Consent].
My problem is although I dont think people should use the race card, I can’t help but see all the kind words about Hank now, just like when white people say “hey i have black friends and i am not racist”.
I do think race plays a factor, just look at how Hank got death threats and letters for passing babe. Its a fact, the media (esp white) have a fascination with babe and have trouble seeing his record passed.
So to sum it up, i think this whole mess is a big combination of things. Bonds arrogant attitude, the strong evidence (but not proven) of cheating, and a biased media.
So lets all take a chill pill, and continue to live our lives. The whole world is corrupt, look at sedan. This is just a game.
By Charlie in Miami