AJC > Sports > Columnists > Archives > 2007 > April > 09 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USAaron owes Bonds nothing
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Terence Moore
Why won’t he call?
Even when we’re in Atlanta, he never comes to visit.
You mean, he can’t reach out to the younger dude pursuing his record by giving him a hug and some tips on how to handle the pressure of it all?
Those whispers from Barry Bonds over the past few days, weeks and months have left the shadows to reach the ears of Hank Aaron like a fastball. The all-time home run king (at least for the moment) responded from his residence in southwest Atlanta by slamming Bonds’ comments back toward the ozone in which they came.
Good. Oh, and Aaron did so as graciously as he once flipped his wrists to make 755 a magic number.
“I’m sorry Barry feels that way, and I don’t have any resentment toward him whatsoever, but I have no intention of trying to get in contact with him or doing anything with him in regard to his [chasing the record]. Nothing. Why should I?” said Aaron, who discovered only recently that the privately sensitive slugger for the San Francisco Giants wants to become pen pals or something. “It’s really not a big concern of mine. I don’t know why I should have to do anything. I might send him a telegram, and that would be the extent of it.”
In case you’re wondering, Aaron first heard about Bonds’ grumbling from a fairly reliable source. His name is Bud Selig, the commissioner of baseball and among Aaron’s closest friends. They’ve been tight since their Milwaukee days. Aaron played for the old Braves, Selig’s boyhood heroes, and after a stint in Atlanta from 1966 through 1974, Aaron played his final two seasons with the Brewers, the team Selig owned at the time.
But back to the present, where Aaron shrugged over whatever it is that Bonds wants him to do. “The commissioner told me that [Bonds] has asked him several times about why I haven’t contacted him,” Aaron said. “I don’t talk to anybody, really, and I’ve never talked to Barry, outside of that commercial we did together a few years ago, and a few other short times.”
Then Aaron gave one of his famous chuckles, adding, “I’m 72 years old, and I’m not hopping on a plane and flying all the way to San Francisco for anybody.”
Nor should he. Which brings us to the primary point here: If Bonds wishes to talk to Aaron, why doesn’t Bonds just pick up the phone?
Sounds like an ego problem.
A big one.
The kind that has Bonds believing he already is on the home-run throne that Aaron has owned nearly forever.
It’s a throne that Aaron consistently has said that he doesn’t mind giving up to Bonds or anybody else. Even so, when the new coronation takes place, Aaron hasn’t changed his mind about being anywhere but within a few solar systems of the place that Bonds is likely to rip No. 756.
“Uh-uh. No, no. I’m not going to be around,” said Aaron, adding that he would stay away even if Bonds were slated to break the record in Atlanta.
Aaron laughed, saying, “I’d probably fly to West Palm Beach to play golf. Again, it has nothing to do with anybody, other than I had enough of it. I don’t want to be around that sort of thing anymore. I just want to be at peace with myself. I don’t want to answer questions. It’s going to be a no-win situation for me anyway. If I go, people are going to say, ‘Well, he went because of this.’ If I don’t go, they’ll say whatever. I’ll just let them make their own mind up.”
The point is, Aaron isn’t afraid of controversy. Since the end of his career, he has evolved into Jackie Robinson, the ultimate role model for truth, justice and what should be the American Way. Not only was Robinson a baseball icon, but a civil rights icon. His No. 42 is retired by all teams in the major leagues. In fact, every game on Sunday - including the Braves’ game at Turner Field against the Florida Marlins - will honor the 60th anniversary of Robinson breaking the game’s color barrier.
Aaron remembered April 15, 1947, as the moment he became a permanent Robinson fan while growing up in segregated Mobile. Aaron also remembered the moment when Robinson passed through town to visit a local drug store. “It was the first time I ever saw him,” said Aaron, still glowing with the memory.
They never spoke back then, but they chatted often in subsequent years. “Listening to him, and just watching his movement and what he stood for and how he went about everything, I wanted to be just like him,” said Aaron, who matched his thoughts with action. After a blind Robinson, crippled with diabetes, died at 53 in October 1972, Aaron approached Ernie Banks and Willie Mays about joining him as Robinson’s replacement.
Said Aaron, “The three of us had a platform to stand on. We needed to voice our opinions. Willie being in New York [Mets], Ernie being in Chicago [Cubs], and me being where I was, we needed to make sure we didn’t give our stamp of approval on certain things that were happening.”
For instance: the token progress of African-American executives in the game, and the declining number of African-American players on the field.
Then Aaron gave that famous chuckle again, before saying, “Quite naturally, those guys [Mays and Banks] decided they weren’t going to do it. I decided that, not only do I owe it to myself, but I owe it to Jackie Robinson.”
That’s opposed to Bonds, to whom Aaron owes nothing.
Permalink | Comments (257) | Post your comment | Categories: Braves / MLB, Terence Moore
Comments
By Patrick
April 9, 2007 8:45 PM | Link to this
Barry needs Hank to add credibility to a questionable record. Hank just continues to show his integrity by not getting drawn into the debate. Hank was a greater player but he is an even greater human being. Good for him.
By Jim
April 9, 2007 8:46 PM | Link to this
Unfortunately, Hank has always come up a little short in the charisma department. But class? He’s got more in his little finger, and always has, than Barry has in his whole chemically altered body.
This is a richly deserved snub.
By Larry
April 9, 2007 8:51 PM | Link to this
Is it at all possible to get a sports story from the AJC without a race comment?
Just one?
By Mike
April 9, 2007 9:03 PM | Link to this
Good for Hank. Being a relative young fan, Hank has always been about class. More than I can say about the “All-about-me” Barry Bonds.
By jp
April 9, 2007 9:11 PM | Link to this
dude i don’t understand how this is a race story? they’re both black but one of them has class and the other doesn’t. Fortunantely Atlanta got the better part of the deal
By Jack
April 9, 2007 9:14 PM | Link to this
Barrrrrrrrrrrrrry is the biggest crybaby in the Major Leagues. If it weren’t for steroids, he wouldn’t be anywhere near Hank’s record. I hope Aaron doesn’t acknowledge Bonds. I wish every pitcher would walk Bonds every time he comes to bat because Bonds doesn’t deserve to break Aaron’s record.
By Kim
April 9, 2007 9:23 PM | Link to this
Great article, Hank has always been classy, I am just old enough to remember the chase, and I for one wish Barry would just disappear, he has no right to the record!
By Nancy
April 9, 2007 9:38 PM | Link to this
There’s no comparison. Look at the totality of Henry Aaron’s performance and career, research the the era in which he exceled. All of his accomplishments and records, done with dignity and without chemicals, make him a role model in my book. Barry Bonds? Unfortunately he’s an example of another kind. Hank’s right. Why should he? He doesn’t want or need anything from BB.
By MikeT
April 9, 2007 9:49 PM | Link to this
Hank has class. Barry does not. Any records that Barry sets should ALWAYS have an asterick beside it. I will never accept Barry’s achievements. They are tainted.
By Nokahoma
April 9, 2007 9:49 PM | Link to this
Two thumbs up to Hank - you will still be the HR champ in my book no matter what Barry does the rest of his year. As a previous poster said, I wish every pitcher and manager would walk Barry every time he came up. No greater statement could be made than that by current players and managers.
By Bob
April 9, 2007 9:50 PM | Link to this
Thank you so much Hank. You are a true hero. Your generation of sports heroes deserves the thanks it gets, not Barry’s. Sorry but Barry is a terrible role model.
By Craigs In The Fire
April 9, 2007 9:58 PM | Link to this
Barry Cheated. It’s really too bad because he still would have been such an incredible hitter without the juice. But… he made the conscience decision to cheat, and therefore I have no respect for him. You Da man Hank!
By David
April 9, 2007 9:59 PM | Link to this
Like the Philly fans so famously said“Ruth did it on hotdogs and beer, Aaron did it with class. What are you doing it with Barry?”
By Jeff
April 9, 2007 10:00 PM | Link to this
Hank…the only true baseball hero!
By rod
April 9, 2007 10:00 PM | Link to this
hey guys hit a ball up my tight home run..email me at roderick.bright@bellsouth.com
By J.B.
April 9, 2007 10:02 PM | Link to this
Hank Aaron is right about not wanting to dignify and legitimize a tainted player breaking a sacred record. Hank did it the right way - with class, with dignity and WITHOUT the juice! I hope Bonds gets booed when he hits 756!
By OddJob
April 9, 2007 10:03 PM | Link to this
Good for Hank!! Bonds has been a cheat and a fraud for ten years,so why should he lend his credibility to this bogus quest ?
By YO
April 9, 2007 10:07 PM | Link to this
Barry Bonds is the best hitter of this era and no one wants to give him props. He can do things others can’t do and it’s not because of steroids. It’s the people that haven’t played that don’t understand: Steroids does not help you hit the ball. He definitely has had his share of cheap HR’s, but he’s still the best overall hitter this generation has seen. I’m 30 years old and didn’t get a chance to see Mr. Aaron play, but Barry has been incredible since day 1 and I can promise you he hasn’t been on roids since day 1.
I give Mr. Aaron his props, but I think it’s time people recoginize how great Barry has been the last 20 years.
By walter
April 9, 2007 10:10 PM | Link to this
Hank Aaron is a complete class act. As a young boy at a Broadway show, I had the pleasure of looking behind me and seeing Mr. Aaron seated in the next row. During intermission I walked to him and though I’m sure I was interrupting his evening out, he graciously signed an autograph. Barry Bonds does not deserve any recognition, period. He personifies everything that is wrong with professional sports.
By Rickey
April 9, 2007 10:12 PM | Link to this
All about mysef{Barry}has no right to the record.It will forever be tainted.Hank has done so much as an ambassador and always with class.No one should attend a game that Bonds is playing in.
By kerwin
April 9, 2007 10:14 PM | Link to this
not a racist story, thanks ajc; and as one who followed the homerun race and was there the night hammerin’ hank broke the record, everyone wasn’t completely behind him either; hank doesn’t owe bonds anything though and a telegram is sufficient especially if he feels that way; but bb, if and when he breaks the record, do deserve what accolades he does receive, it’s a great feat!
By Thomas
April 9, 2007 10:15 PM | Link to this
Nice job Hank! You represent the rest of us who think Bonds is a fraud and undeserving of any accolades!
By Dan
April 9, 2007 10:16 PM | Link to this
YO,
I’m willing to fully recognize the talent that Barry Bonds is, but his chase of the home run record has been chemically enhanced for the better part of a decade now and makes a mockery of the class and dignity with which Hank Aaron went about his business.
Barry Bonds using steroids isn’t a slight against the game of baseball. The sport has glorified cheaters for years (hello Gaylord Perry), but Bonds’ steroid use is a slight against the legends who played the game the way it was meant to be played.
By Peter
April 9, 2007 10:20 PM | Link to this
Bonds is a low brow prima donna, a poor excuse for a role model and should have been banned from baseball a long time ago. Baseball needs more heros like Hank Aaron and should relegate the Barry Bonds’ of the world into the dustbin of disgrace.
By Scott
April 9, 2007 10:21 PM | Link to this
Aaron shows no class by not showing up. I don’t buy into (mainly because im not an idiot) that he just ‘doesn’t care anymore’ or anything. The fact is, Barry was never physically caught with steroids in his body and he certainly won’t be now. Aaron proves to be a bad loser in this scenario by not showing up, validated by the lie that “If I go, people are going to say, ‘Well, he went because of this.’” Aaron, is you went we would all think you were a good person by showing up to pass on your record, when you don’t go its exactly the opposite.
By jefferson
April 9, 2007 10:21 PM | Link to this
Mr. Aaron, you are a baseball hero and a respected man. Barry Bonds is neither. Thank you Mr. Aaron for your contribution to the game of baseball and to providing many young men with hope and inspiration.
By SteveO
April 9, 2007 10:22 PM | Link to this
The biggest problem is not Bonds, it is MLB and everyone from the media to Congress who wanted to create a story so they could jump on the bandwagon. MLB could have simply altered its drug policy and enforced it. If that got Bonds, or anyone else, so be it. Instead, we now have a story of monumental proportions created by people like Moore. If they can’t catch Bonds, too bad for MLB. If the issue is cheating, throw out the record of everyone who threw a spitball or put pinetar too far up the bat. If the issue is something illegal, permanantly toss every player (and their record) who committed any crime. If the issue is “performance enhancing substances,” suspend every player who has taken a One-A-Day or Protein Powder. They are also performance enhancing substances. Baseball can, and should, draw a line with such substances and they have. It is now clear. Get caught, you are gone. However, to go back and history and moan and groan about “performance enhancing substances” is a fallacy unless one is ready to discusss everything from vitamins to protein powder to anything else that aids fitness. They are all on the same continuum. Bonds is a jerk, but MLB created this joke of an issue, aided by people like Terrence Moore who need a story.
By GK
April 9, 2007 10:23 PM | Link to this
Of course this is all about Bonds needing Aaron to legitimize his own record. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, I would never throw another hitable pitch to Bonds. He should not be allowed to taint the great record of Hank Aaron. He has cheated his way to this point and all pitchers in the MLB can and should put a stop to him now.
By Braves fan 202
April 9, 2007 10:24 PM | Link to this
If barry passes aaron the bravos better when the world series. And what do you know? Terrence Moore writes about racial issues, wow, what a shocker. Can we just talk sports and move on and leave civil rights(which i am not against in any way) to the non sports news.
By Lee
April 9, 2007 10:26 PM | Link to this
Good grief,
Terence Moore can’t make it through one column without bringing up the race card. Somehow, he turns a column about Hank Aaron not attending the game in which Bonds breaks the homerun record into a rant about “…the token progress of African-American executives in the game, and the declining number of African-American players on the field.”
That’s what, about the third time you’ve written about that in a week?
Give me a break..
By Huge fan
April 9, 2007 10:26 PM | Link to this
Anybody who thinks Barry didn’t use ‘Roids is blind. Look at his body and HEAD size from his 20’s to his 30’s. Just like Sammy. They cheated. For those guys it helped them become huge and also helped them to recover better for the next day. Hank will still be #1!!
By Scott
April 9, 2007 10:27 PM | Link to this
Aaron and Selig are making a biggggg mistake. They should show up when he breaks the record, have their pictures taken AND BE DONE WITH IT. If they do not show up, then that becomes the story and it never ends. Aaron and Selig will forever be answering the questions as to why they did not go, and they will continue to give complete BS answers. They do not want to be there b/c they dislike Bonds. End of story. But they do not want to say that. They should just go and end the story.
By Dan
April 9, 2007 10:30 PM | Link to this
Hank would have had 1,000 Homers if he did ‘roids like Barry. I hope Hamk stays away from 756.
By DollarDawg
April 9, 2007 10:30 PM | Link to this
The Hammer broke The Babe’s record fair and square and did it under likely the most intense pressure and scrutiny an athlete has ever performed under.
The Juiced Up Cheater has done nothing but drag down baseball’s reputation with various (questionable at best, illegal at worst)enhancements and the worst attitude most will ever witness.
Good for you Hank; don’t validate this fraud. No matter what future record books may show, Hank Aaron will be baseball’s home run champion until his numbers are surpassed legitimately.
By treylortrache
April 9, 2007 10:36 PM | Link to this
I agree with those above that say Hank is a class act trying to stay out of a sticky mess, but keeps getting drawn into it…Barry is the perfect icon of everything that’s wrong with the game today….and Terrance Moore is so hung up on everything hinging on black and white issues he can’t write about anything else. I hardly read his columns any more, and when I do, it’s usually just to see how many racial points are made within it….he NEVER disappoints me. It must be tough living every day with that kind of chip on his shoulder.
By SteveO
April 9, 2007 10:36 PM | Link to this
For the people talking about Moore raising the race issue, what do you expect? The AJC is a third rate newspaper that has to GIVE away subscriptions to sell ads. Third rate papers have … you guessed it… third rate talent. As I said, lazy and uninspired sportswriters can live off the steriod issue for another year or two. It takes no talent to write the same thing over and over. Similarly, any AJC columnist can always pander to the race issue in Atlanta. They have chosen to do that rather than be the true Atanta voice, and they pay for it by being a joke of a large city paper.
By TheBabe
April 9, 2007 10:39 PM | Link to this
I don’t recall reading or hearing that Hank said he would not get involved with Bonds because of his alleged steroid use. He just doesn’t want to be involved period. He is enjoying a relatively quiet life for once and wants to keep it that way. Hank enjoys his privacy. I don’t think it is all to do about Bonds alleged steriod use. Bonds probably did use steroids but he has not been proven to do so and for a time what he might have used was not illegal. I think Bond’s has been villified by the press all these years because he has not cooperated with them like Hank and others did. I’m not saying Barry doesn’t have his problems but it’s killing me, a true baseball fan to see this going down the way is.
By TheBabe
April 9, 2007 10:42 PM | Link to this
By the way, I’m sick of the race subject too. I’m sick of hearing of Jackie Robinson. It’s been crammed down my throat and I’m starting to hate it.
By Donna Outlaw
April 9, 2007 10:43 PM | Link to this
Hank will have the “real and true” Home run record until someone comes along that didn’t use illegal body-altering drugs to do it. I think there should be a separate category called “Home Run Record By One Who Was Using Performance Enhancing Drugs”. What gets me is the rejection Pete Rose got for betting on baseball after he was a player yet bonds is a current player. Rose’s actions after he was a player caused all kinds of commotion about his getting into the Hall of Fame yet Bonds will be able to claim a home run record while using performance enhancing drugs while he’s still a player and I’m sure be admitted to the Hall of Fame no matter what. Hank Aaron will be the home run king until someone does it the old-fashioned way - EARN IT HONESTLY.
By Brooklyns Finest
April 9, 2007 10:44 PM | Link to this
Nobody should celebrate Barry’s record if and when it happens. I was hoping that MB would of found a way to shut this clown down by now, or he would gracefully retire, but no such luck.
It is what it is!!!!!
Do not support this fraud
BK’s Finest
By Chris Brown
April 9, 2007 10:53 PM | Link to this
ANOTHER GREAT ARTICLE Terence Mr. Aaron is an elder statesman and a class act that owes Bonds nothing…
By Chris
April 9, 2007 11:00 PM | Link to this
Rather than this empty demonstration of recognition Sunday, where players will wear a different number and everyone will pretend Jackie Robinson fixed everything, I’d like to see baseball address some of the real issues of race in the game; namely, the lack of black leadership in the executive and managerial ranks. Let’s see the game being played in more inner city neighborhoods. Do something tangible and real, not another shallow nod to one man. Jackie Robinson would probably be the first to say “Enough!”.
By mLn
April 9, 2007 11:02 PM | Link to this
Why don’t the pitchers simply walk Barry, especially the Atlanta pitchers? The home run title should belong to Hank Aaron, not Barry Bonds.
By SteveO
April 9, 2007 11:04 PM | Link to this
Donna Outlaw - News for you. Every MLB player uses performance enhancing substances. If that is your test, stop going to games.
By Rex D
April 9, 2007 11:05 PM | Link to this
Guys:
Hank Aaron. Barry Bonds. Jackie Robinson. Bud Selig. All rolled into one. Terrence has got you going again. It only shows he knows how to pick the best topics. My take: Hank should not attend the game if he is not happy for Barry. He is a retired player. When he comes around the game, it should only be for moments that please him. The Commissioner, on the other hand, has investigated BUT not concluded that Bonds used steroids, and therefore he should attend the game since that is his job. Rex D.
By kingdavid
April 9, 2007 11:06 PM | Link to this
DANG ITS JUST A GAME , AND SO MUCH HATE , PEOPLE LIKE HANK IS THE LEADING CAUSE OF THE PROBLEMS WITH YOUNG BLACK MALE, NO MALE ROLE MODELS . WHEN DID CLASS COME WITH BASEBALL OR CAR DEALERSHIP….SOUND KIND OF JIGG A BOO TO ME….OR WAS IT WANNA BE….
By nate
April 9, 2007 11:08 PM | Link to this
Hank Aaron doesn’t owe anybody anything for what he had to endure. Barry Bonds has not endured anything compared to Hank. I think it’s an insult to Hank. Hank Aaron was never controversial, Barry Bonds has spent his entire career in it. Barry, for once in your life, show some respect, especially to your elders. Nobody owes you anything. Do what you need to do and move on. Remember, when Hank went after Babe Ruth’s record, he had to keep his mouth shut and play ball while the so called baseball fans made racial slurs to him and all the hate mail, SICK!!! Today, Barry Bonds get’s to say whatever he wants and get away with it. People like Hank Aaron made it possible for Bonds to be the player he is today and talk the way he talks. I have nothing against Bonds breaking the record, but keep Hank out of it if he doesn’t want to be involved. since that’s his request, honor it, respect it and move on. There is too much controversy surrounding Barry Bonds right now.
By SB
April 9, 2007 11:17 PM | Link to this
Kudos to Mr. Aaron. He’s a class act all the way and we’re lucky to have him. To Yo: Yes, Barry is very talented but as Dale Murphy said, “He’s gone about his career the wrong way, I’m very indifferent to what he’s accomplishing. He would’ve accomplished great things in baseball without getting involved with this stuff.”
Barry can only blame himself as to why he is so disliked and that his record will have an asterisk next to it in everyone’s mind.
By jabster
April 9, 2007 11:17 PM | Link to this
Are they going to build a 756* club at the Giants ballpark (whatever they call it now)?
By Michael
April 9, 2007 11:18 PM | Link to this
Barry Bonds can’t hold Hank’s jockstrap. Period. Never has, never will. And to say that chemicals don’t aid the home runs might be true. But they certainly aid the longevity by reducing the time to recover. Hank just rubbed dirt on his injuries and sucked it up. Barry shot up.
By Mike S.
April 9, 2007 11:20 PM | Link to this
Barry Bonds’ chase for Hank Aaron’s record is not a chase in my mind. What Hank Aaron did to break Babe Ruth’s record was remarkable. He did it without negative publicity or performance enhancing drugs. With all the hate mail Hank Aaron got, which was not deserved at all, he did it with class and dignity. Barry Bonds is incapable of having class or dignity.
By domeOFpain
April 9, 2007 11:20 PM | Link to this
Barry Bonds - a great baseball player; no question about that.
By nick
April 9, 2007 11:29 PM | Link to this
Here’s something to remember for Barry Bonds when you compare numbers between Hank and Barry. Hank Aaron had 3,771 hits in his career. Barry Bonds has 2,841 at the start of the year. If you take away all of Hank Aaron’s home Runs for his entire career, He still has over 3,000 hits which means he’s still a hall of famer. you take away all Barry’s Home Runs, He’s barely over 2,000 hits. And Hank did all this during difficult times for Black athletes to compete. My point is, Barry, you are not in the same class with Hank Aaron for you to make such a statement. Think about that.
By Ty
April 9, 2007 11:30 PM | Link to this
This actually IS an innocent question…. Is there a statute of limitations on how long we’ll “look back” to race-related triumphs?
I, for one, sincerely appreciate the achievements of gentlemen like Jackie Robinson, Ernie Banks, and Hank Aaron and do enjoy the times we can ‘reflect’ on what great players — and class men — they were. But, I do think we can’t completely ‘move on’ until we stop dwelling on the ‘shameful past’ of prejudice in our society.
Terrence, I’m not sure you’re the right guy to review this, but I would be interested in what the ‘silent leaders’ like Hammerin’ Hank and his fellow leaders feel about this subject.
By Black baseball coach
April 9, 2007 11:31 PM | Link to this
To Chris, You’re not going to get more blacks in executive leadership or in the coaching ranks just by putting baseball into inner cities. Its going to take a reverse change in black culture. Specifically with parents. Baseball requires much more to be successful nowdays. You need time, ability to travel, and money so that kids can play tournament ball. To be elite, you have to play the elite and you won’t find that in rec or any other league. The issue with blacks in inner cities is that many kids are from single parent households where their parents are working their tails off just to keep up. They don’t have the time, money, or resources for their kids to play for teams they need to. This is one reason why the number of blacks in MLB has been decreasing over the last 2 decades.
By Ray
April 9, 2007 11:33 PM | Link to this
All this hate for what? Give the man his props Hank, and keep selling your BMWs… If any of you haters out there feel its as easy as taking steriods, try taking a dose and hitting a baseball…lol
Quick facts: At 17 - I was 145lbs,lifted 145lbs At 36 - I am 210lbs, lift 300lbs. And no I have not taken any steriods. Do people think Barry is suppose to be the same size? People seem to think that there is a corelation between steriods and hitting a baseball. Think people think!! People take energy and power enhancing chemicals everyday. Just because some hating official decided that a particular drug (after the fact) is illegal, that the greatest hitter of all time name is tarnished? America media is so screwed up! (I guess you believe IRAQ was real threat too!!) What the h*ll did Hank take? Who tested Babe Ruth? Barry still hits HRs with the little good pitches that are thrown to him. Does steroid help you do that too? He had an attitude because people have been hating on him so much, that he has to defend everything. YOu want him to smile and be normal with all this hate? This guy has heart and should be recognized. Hank get off your high horse and recognize this brother, you know what its like to perform when the whole world is against you. Or is business going too well for you?
By gregory mcfadden
April 10, 2007 10:40 AM | Link to this
Great article…..
By David Lee
April 10, 2007 10:43 AM | Link to this
Thanks, Terrence ………. a great interview with an awesomely class man ……. Hank Aaron ……. great American
By Tuscaloosa Tom
April 10, 2007 10:57 AM | Link to this
Bonds should never be grouped with Aaron, Mays, or Mantle. These 3 plus Musial, Williams, Reggie Jackson, and countless others achieved success without steroids.
All records by Bonds should have an asterisk.
By Shaun
April 10, 2007 10:57 AM | Link to this
Please relax on Barry Bonds. He is without a doubt the greatest hitter of our generation, maybe ever. All of these cries of cheater are completely unfounded. If and when Barry took performance enhancing drugs there is no way to determine if they were banned by baseball at the time. If we want to say he’s a cheater because they are illegal now then Babe Ruth was a cheater as well and his numbers should come into question - he used a corked bat for the majority of his career. (Not to mention he played in a segregated league that didn’t allow some of the greatest players of his generation to compete against him). Also, Ken Caminiti himself admitted that more than 50% of players used steroids when he played and Barry still outhit them all. And someone please explain his extraordinary on-base percentage, patience at the plate, and hand eye coordination. Remember, Barry had 2 seasons during which he had more home runs than strikeouts. Steroids or not, he’s as good as we’ve seen.
By King JEC IV
April 10, 2007 10:58 AM | Link to this
Everyone’s hating on the black man!! Boo f*ckin’ hoo!! I would love to see some of my fellow brothers take responsibility for their actions. Barry Bonds is a cheater. There’s no gray area here. It’s wrong to take performance enhancing drugs. He did it. There’s no white man conspiracy here. As for Mr. Hank Aaron, I hope that he stays as far away as he can from this dishonorable a-hole! Putting in an appearance with him would sully his good image and name. Besides, I’d be bothered that my record was going to be broken by a deceitful, dishonest and unscrupulous individual as Barry Bonds. You’re a cheater, Mr. Bonds. I repeat there is no conspiracy here. When will we (black people) stop blindly defending every black person, who’s broken the rules or run afoul of the law? OJ, Barry Bonds, R. Kelly and on and on…. And if they are out to get us, why do we stupidly put ourselves in the position to be arrested?
By GT80
April 10, 2007 10:58 AM | Link to this
Wow, I read the headline “Moore:Aaron Snubbing Bonds” and was ready to be p** at Terrence. My mistake. Terrence Moore, this might have been your finest article. There was no race issues, just facts with no hyperbole. Well done.
By B Ball Fan
April 10, 2007 11:06 AM | Link to this
I think this is a huge mistake by Aaron. He should be at the park when Bonds break the record. It interesting how we want to make Barry guilty of taking steroids when he has never tested positive. Yes his body changed and so did a lot of other major league ball players who seem to get a free pass on the steroid issue. Bonds is one of the best players to ever play in the history of the game and because people, mainly the media wants to paint a negative picture on him because they think he used steroids, he is considered a villian by the public. Until he is found guilty, respect him for being the best player in the game and the new homerun king. I detect a little jealousy from Hank Aaron and for a man with so much class, he needs to get over it and attend the game when Barry breaks the record. For the record I am not a Barry Bonds fan but whats right is right and we live in a country where you are innocent until proven guilty. He hasnt been proven guilty of anything!
By Scott
April 10, 2007 11:10 AM | Link to this
Nice article. For sure Hank Aaron is much classier than Bonds, but apparently lacking in charisma and personality. If he wanted to do so much for Blacks in the world of sports and otherwise, why didn’t he find a better platform to do it? I mean, he didn’t even win people over before he started decrying the state of African Americans in the majors. Everytime he opened his mouth it was to complain about the status of his race in sports. He did not fulfill this role very well and I guess he has to live with that, but there was no balance to his comments….always complaining. Think these young black guys in the majors are complaining or thanking him as they cash their multi-million dollar checks? No way!! Pro sports wants WINNERS and they come in all colors-period. Race is secondary. But after the record goes to the Cheater, Aaron’s only legacy will be that he complained the entire time after his retirement. He will be forgotten and Bonds will never be remembered becaise the record will no longer mean much.
By ron
April 10, 2007 11:10 AM | Link to this
By Old Man Hank
April 10, 2007 11:15 AM | Link to this
Hnak is a bitter old man who does not want his record broken. He and other old timers have made it clear they do not like these young, possibly juiced up players breaking their records. The homerun record is the one thing that people will remember about Hank. Nobody remembers second place. Get over it Hank, your time in the limelight is about to END.
GO BARRY!!!!
By lightninlee
April 10, 2007 11:15 AM | Link to this
The Hammer(Henry Aaron) is a very fine gentleman! Mr. B.Bonds on the other hand, is a narcissist,cheater,and a fraud!
By Steve
April 10, 2007 11:15 AM | Link to this
As a little leaguer, Hank was one of my heroes..and still is to this day. He is a man of grace and integrity. His homerun record has integrity, it was hard earned through honest effort. Barry is a little man compared to this giant. Hank shouldn’t give that cheater the time of day (although Hank is so nice, he probably will in the end).
By roid user
April 10, 2007 11:17 AM | Link to this
Yo,
so what you’re saying is, if Barry Bonds did not “juice” he’d still be a “great” player? I agree. he’d be Mike Schmidt, Roberto Clemente, Mickey Mantle, Tony Gwynn, maybe even Willie Mays. he’d be a first ballot Hall of Famer without an asterisk next to his name. the problem is, he (most likely) did use steroids (banned or not), so any records are tainted. I also agree that steroids cannot make a average player “good” but they most certainly can make a good player “great” and a “great player” greater. steroids don’t help players “hit” a baseball, they most certainly help players hit a baseball harder and further (or is it farther?). more importantly, they enable players like Bonds to get more at bats (later in his career). Barry’s “growth spurt” came at a time when most veteran players begin to “slow down” (after age 35). I don’t believe any knowledgable baseball fan would disagree that Bonds was perhaps the best player of his generation, but anything he accomplished after 2000 should be viewed with skepticism.
By Ivy
April 10, 2007 11:22 AM | Link to this
If Mr. Aaron was younger I would think he was a hater. But at his age, I just chalk it up to a generational distance. Neither person owes the other anything but it goes to show you what happens to folks after reaching certain heights —— everyone gets a chip on their shoulder!
By Ellis
April 10, 2007 11:26 AM | Link to this
Henry Aaron is a class act. Atlanta would have done well to name the stadium Hank Aaron Field and put it on “17 Turner Drive.” It would have upset all the right people.
As for Bonds, he’s not a Hall-of-Fame player, but rather a Hall-of-Fame* player. We will never know what he could have done without the juice. Even before he got bulky, he had HOF’er skills, but I think that without the fast healing that he steroids provided, he would not have had so many years to pump up his numbers. He’s a rather pathetic, petulent figure. The Giants will be better off without him. It’s time for baseball to move on.
By Cory
April 10, 2007 11:29 AM | Link to this
Barry is upset b/c he knows that Hank really knows the truth…Barry cheated his way to where he is today. Hank is to classy to validate a cheater!!!!
By Zoldars
April 10, 2007 11:33 AM | Link to this
You know what? Players used whatever they had at their disposal throughout the years to improve on their game. Performance enhancers. Thats what it has always been. Spit on a baseball to roids in yer veins. Regardless of what players have used, they have used all resources available to them to accomplish their goals. And you know what? Barry is a bad a*. Yeah, he used roids, but i bet he isnt right now. And that man is in some incredible shape. And to the person who mentioned all the extra hits that aaron had- what about all the walks barry has? Just as good as a single really. Didnt he set the record for walks in a year? Steve-o’s comments have been right on this whole blog. Good job sir. Also, terrence, time for a new article topic. Who cares about any of this crap. If it werent for the internet, I doubt you would even be aware that someone reads your work. Lame. All of it. The AJC needs to tighten up. MIserable reporting. Miserable writing. Miserable diatribes. Look at all this time i wasted. Sheesh.
By Dwayne
April 10, 2007 11:33 AM | Link to this
This is just another situation where Aaron shows how low class he is. He has always been so selfish and this is just another time where since he will no longer be the big fish, he isn’t happy. Henry “no class” Aaron strikes again.
By j
April 10, 2007 11:37 AM | Link to this
Ray for many it may be about hate. For some of us it is about integrity. Please don’t fool your self believing that taking performance enhancing substances do not help a player be a better player if you believe that then you live in a fairy tail world. As for being 145lbs at 17 and 210bs at 36 becuse you just worked out good for you but take off the rose colored glasses and watch the developement of Barry over the years and tell how much bigger is your head now at age 36? Did BB take steriods? At this point only he and his trainer knows. My quess is yes and with that cloud hanging over his head many people will see it as disgracing the record. As for Mr Aaron he can do as he pleases he owes nothing. It sounds to me that you must have a issue with him. So the man makes a living selling BMW’s is there something wrong with that? You go ahead and enjoy BB breaking the record but let others observe it the way they choose!
By bigzz
April 10, 2007 11:41 AM | Link to this
I definitely agree with Ray. If your a true baseball fan and actually know what it takes to be successful at the sport, then you know that steroids does not help you hit a baseball. I know the Barry Bonds is not the the most personable person in the world but please give respect where respect is due. BB is a helluva baseball player and a legend. I know Hank Aaron is a hero to most of you ATLiens, and very well should be, but I believe if one has a record of this magnitude and does not show up to see it broken, that would be very shameful to himself and to the sport of baseball. It doesn’t take a genius to figure out why he doesn’t want to be a part of it. Again folks, there hasn’t been any concrete proof that he took steroids, maybe he did, but no proof. Lets just appreciate what we are witnessing and get on with our lives. When Barry breaks the record, A-Rod will probably be next in line to break it so BB won’t hold it for long. So don’t hate, appreciate. Another thing, why are so many people bent out of shape with what T-Moore writes? Its crazy to me read about Moore is a racist and the only thing he talks about is race issues. I don’t know Mr. Moore personally and neither do most of you, so I am not going to judge him in that way. But from what I have read in his articles, he seems to know what he is talking about and if he wants to add something about race relations in this world, so be it. Its still revelant in todays society, in case you’ve been hiding under a rock all of your life. You can also keep it real simple, and just don’t read is articles. Bye
By Kat
April 10, 2007 11:49 AM | Link to this
Sorry Larry…JP…but it’s hard to tell a story about a prominent 72 year old African-American in this country without bringing race into it somehow. Hank Aaron was a hero of the Civil Rights era, and Barry Bonds has, in the past, compared his own “struggle” as a black man’s to Aaron’s. As if there aren’t 300 better reasons to hate Barry than because he’s black—not to mention that times have changed a good bit since the 50’s for God’s sake. I’ve always found it very presumptuous and offensive when Bonds has compared himself to Hank Aaron in ANY way.
Barry’s a whiny poseur on every level—on Sportscenter last night he was all lying and saying “Oh, I don’t care if Hank Aaron’s there—why should I care…?” Whatever.
Anybody else happy that Terence Moore is a Braves fan again this season??
By will c
April 10, 2007 11:52 AM | Link to this
Barry doesn’t need Hank to bring credibility to the home run record. Barry is the MAN, all you HATERS can kiss his fanny. BARRY BONDS is the best Player in BASEBALL. Period
By MOT
April 10, 2007 11:52 AM | Link to this
There should be two categories for most HRs hit:
Natural and Steroidal
Does steroids help hit the ball? No, but once that contact is made they sure to make sure it is over the fence!!!! Hank will hold the record no matter what old Mr. BB does!!!
By AL
April 10, 2007 11:56 AM | Link to this
Is it just me or does Aaron sound like an older Bonds? Class? Please. They’re both selfish, and don’t understand what it is to be humble and give back for the greater good (fans, the game, children, etc). Bonds gets a bad rap because he’s so private - doesn’t want to talk to the media, sign baseballs,etc. Well, Aaron is acting the same way in his golden years. Whether or not Aaron shows up is neither a statement for or against the legitimacy of the record.
By jason
April 10, 2007 11:57 AM | Link to this
Bonds has been disgruntled toward everything and everybody. Hes fought team members and coaches time and again. Sure he can hit the homers. The stadiums are shorter, pitching isnt as good. We can only dream what Mr. Aaron would have done in Colorado. Mr. Aaron played in a very racially charged era and Bonds pretty much compared himself to that. Selig should go to Barrys breaker. Hank shouldnt have to. I don`t think he should be dragged like the Maris family were waiting for it to happen.
By j
April 10, 2007 11:59 AM | Link to this
Again how can you appreciate if there is no ingegrity? To say that there is no concrete proof then having a punkin head is normal? For those people that that does not bother them, I hope I never have the displeasure of meeting you!
By TomCat
April 10, 2007 11:59 AM | Link to this
Henry Aaron will always be the greatest home run hitter and all around player I will ever remember. I still have cassette tapes I recorded live of his 714th and 715th home runs. It still gives me chills to listen to them today. He truly broke the race barriers of the Old South. Barry Bonds makes me sick, riding on the strong backs of Aaron and Mays and Banks on his pharmaceutical high!
By George
April 10, 2007 12:03 PM | Link to this
Barry Bonds may break the record but in the minds of most true baseball fans Henry Arron will still be the legitimate home run king. Mr. Bonds should retire now.
By JOE COUNTS
April 10, 2007 12:08 PM | Link to this
SEEMS TO ME AARON IS AS LOW CLASS AS HE HAS EVER BEEN. HE HAS ALWAYS BEEN LIKE THIS. HANK SHOULD BE THERE WHEN BARRY BREAKS HIS RECORD TO SHOW IS RESPECT FOR BARRY AND THE GAME OF BASEBALL. BUT THEN I’M NOT SURE HE EVER HAD RESPECT FOR THE GAME AT ALL
By JOE COUNTS
April 10, 2007 12:08 PM | Link to this
SEEMS TO ME AARON IS AS LOW CLASS AS HE HAS EVER BEEN. HE HAS ALWAYS BEEN LIKE THIS. HANK SHOULD BE THERE WHEN BARRY BREAKS HIS RECORD TO SHOW IS RESPECT FOR BARRY AND THE GAME OF BASEBALL. BUT THEN I’M NOT SURE HE EVER HAD RESPECT FOR THE GAME AT ALL
By Johnny Evans
April 10, 2007 12:15 PM | Link to this
Congrats to you Hank==i stand behind you 1000% ref Barry Bonds==To me he is a sore spot to baseball= Wondering if the Feds are waiting until he hits the recorder breaker=to release there findings= Johnny L.Evans PS Mt. Aaron=you owe bonds nothing
By bclontz
April 10, 2007 12:19 PM | Link to this
Hank Aaron doesn’t owe anyone anything! He is the greatest homerun hitter of all times! If what’s his name “Bones or something like that” does hit more Steroid Homers, he still won’t be in the same league with Hammering Hank! Hank Aaron grew up when playing meant playing, and overcame things that we shouldn’t have to overcome. He got his the right way, “He earned it”. Just like Jackie Robinson did it! The San Francisco Giants should have reeled him in a long time ago, and the fans should have admitted it to themselves, this guy is a steroid junkie with an ego almost as big as his head. I will never acknowlege him as the home run leader, and wouldn’t buy a two dollar ticket for a front row seat to see him play. Hank Aaron is the unblimished Home Run King…..As a proud angelo saxon male proud to hail from the Great State of Georgia I firmly beleive that there should be an * next to this record……Hall of Fame ? Don’t get me started on that !!!!!
By Joe
April 10, 2007 12:21 PM | Link to this
Great Article, Terrance. No question, Mr. Aaron is a classy, inteligent represenative of the human race. He’s what we should all strive to be.
By James
April 10, 2007 12:25 PM | Link to this
Mr. Aaron has every right and is correct to keep his distance from Bonds. Aaron is and has always been a class act.
I was 9 years old when my dad called me in from the porch to watch the record breaking swing. We were all filled with so much pride for Mr. Aaron and his accomplishment. 33 years later I’m sadden that such an accomplishment is being sullied by such a character.
By Jim P.
April 10, 2007 12:27 PM | Link to this
With all the enhancement drugs running through Barry Bonds’ body, and his cry-baby attitude, Even when he passes Hank’s record, to me it will not count. As far as I can see, Hank used his own talent without the use of performance enhancing drugs to beat Babe Ruth’s record. Bonds record will always be tainted. I kind of wish he would get a season ending injury and leave him just shy of a great man pure accomplishment.
By Doug in Tucson
April 10, 2007 12:30 PM | Link to this
Like many of my fellow Braves Fans I grew up following Hank Aaron in Milwaukee.Hank never did anything on or off the field to tarnish his image or did he ever snub the media or worse yet those who rooted for him. At 58 years of age I would reach out my hand to “Mr. Aaron”….I just don’t feel any connection to Bonds and he is the one who has made many baseball fans feel the same.
By theman
April 10, 2007 12:32 PM | Link to this
Unfortunately, I have to somewhat agree with Al. I am an African American that has grown up and lived in the metro Atl. all of my life and has pretty much held Hank in great admiration but, I just can’t seem to remember him ever reaching out to the public, quite similar to Barry Bonds but just not as arrogant. So, I am not surprised at his response to Barry Bonds “JUST DISSAPPOINTED”. I see it as One Selfish persons dealing with another selfish person the outcome is never good. Kinda like that old crab in a barrell concept you know? One will always try to hold back the other. Hey, Barry and Hank there is enough love to go around for the both of you. Hank, you need to stop hating and be a bigger and better man than Bud Selig.
By Terry Krugman
April 10, 2007 12:34 PM | Link to this
It was good to read that Aaron still honors Jackie Robinson, perhaps the finest American athlete ever and a remarkable person outside of baseball (he was invovled in civil rights and securing financial help for the indigent in New York). Steroids may not improve hand-eye coordination, but they do augment bat speed, which certainly helps in the home run department.
By Gave Up
April 10, 2007 12:38 PM | Link to this
Ummm, people actually still care about professional baseball?
By Ally
April 10, 2007 12:39 PM | Link to this
Barry Bonds needs to get over himself. Hank Aaron is an icon and even if Barry Bonds surpasses him in numbers, he will never do so in integrity. When Barry Bonds matches him in that, then he should pay Mr. Aaron a visit..Get a life Barry..
By bb
April 10, 2007 12:39 PM | Link to this
Why does eve