The name of the ex-MLB star Barry Bonds is largely synonymous with controversies. Even after winning many accolades as one of the best hitters in the league, he has been under public scrutiny for his nature. He was one of the infamous names, who faced open criticism from baseball players, managers, and fans. But there is more to his name that put him in the league of rare and beautiful personalities.
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The book Love Me, Hate Me: Barry Bonds shares few such incidents involving Bonds, showing another side of the Bonds, which the world rarely discusses.
A Soft and Caring Barry Bonds, the World Never Talked About Enough
Barry Bonds had a strong presence at the diamond all his MLB career. Known for his hitting skills and power, he scored thousands of runs and home runs to put himself in a different league. Though he was a distinct personality, there was also a kind and caring side, which made him an exceptional human being. Sadly, it needed more media attention. But the book’s author Jeff Pearlman acknowledged it.
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On page 255, it reads, “Behind the scenes, there are moments in Bonds’s life, however fleeting, that reveal a touch of humanity.” He pointed toward Bonds’ respect and love for the Giants clubhouse attendant, who retrieved the ball after diving 8 feet into a frigid. Jeff shared, “Bonds was so touched he later bought the man a motorcycle.” Notably, this was not the only case.
Bonds left a mark on his Pirates coach with an unbelievable gesture. It happened after hitting coach Milt May’s son had a deadly accident. As soon as Bonds learned about it, he reached the hospital to see the injured Scott.
His coach said, “It wasn’t anything we asked him to do, and he didn’t make any announcements to get attention from the media. Barry very quietly showed up because he wanted to help my son. I’ll never forget the depth of that goodness.”
Though Bonds was soft and kind off the field but was fierce as soon as he was at the plate, it was visible in his approach while going for a record after getting a death threat.
A Fighting Personality at the Plate
Though Bonds was a kind personality for the known, he did not let him put a break to his fierceness on the baseball field. During his around two decades career, Bonds put on brilliant performances, raising the eyebrows of everyone. The case includes his dealing with the death threat to create the record for maximum home runs, 73, in a single season.
Although some chapters from Bonds’ life put him in the contention of conflicts, he deserves all the praise, like any other person.
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Written by
Edited by
Deepanshi Bajaj