Bye, Bye, Barry

I looks like Barry Bonds did indeed play his last game as a Giant. Bonds isn't interested in a pay cut and states that he doesn't have to play baseball anymore. If he's serious, then the Giants don't have any choice but to let him go his merry way.

Bonds didn't really earn the millions the Giants paid him the last two years. His injuries combined with the steroid scandal offset his accomplishments on the field. He's going to be 43 next year, and if the past two seasons are any indication, his body will continue to betray him and reduce his playing time. The Giants can't afford to pay that kind of money for so little return.

I've been supportive of Bonds throughout his tenure as a Giant. I'm willing to give him the benefit of doubt when it comes to the steroid issue. He's never tested positive, and until he does, it's his word against some less-than-credible individuals. But the Giants need more than a part-time player for the kind of money Bonds wants. Barry can't guarantee that he'll be able to play more than 60% of the games next year. Why should the Giants pay him that kind of salary?

It's doubtful that Bonds has played his last game, especially considering that he needs only 22 more home runs to break Hank Aaron's record (Bonds hit 26 this past season). Some team (probably the Yankees) will pay him enough money to keep him playing until he hits number 756. I wish him good luck and I hope the Giants don't have to face him next year.