Scott Allan’s World

I’ve become weary of political commentary so today I will comment on Barry Bonds. At the moment, Bonds is one homerun behind Babe Ruth, the greatest player and icon in the history of the game. Now I didn’t say Ruth is the greatest homerun hitter for all of you screaming “Hank Aaron” at the computer. Last I heard, Aaron never won 20 games in a season as a pitcher. But then again Aaron never hit 50 homeruns in any season either. He was just the most consistent homerun hitter in history. Anyways back to Bonds.

Let’s all agree on one thing, Bonds is a jerk. As if there wasn’t enough proof already, here’s more in today’s news: Bonds refuses to sign 713 HR ball for serviceman. As far as I’m concerned, his personality does his reputation the most harm. If this was Ken Griffey Jr. or Sammy Sosa, I think there would not be as much negativity in the homerun chase. Of course his obvious lying about steroids on top of being the biggest jerk in baseball is not helping him at all.

But I submit that hitting homeruns is not about how big your biceps are. Babe Ruth and Hank Aaron were proof positive that natural talent alone can get you to the top. You need exceptional vision, coordination, and bat speed. Barry Bonds has that. I’m often amazed and how fast he swings the bat with all that bulk in the way. He is a great hitter. Considering he gets walked more than anyone in history, he still gets his share of homeruns. Bonds hits the ball 500+ feet. How much of that is steroid assisted? 20 feet? 50 feet? Whatever it is, with his swing, I’m sure the majority of those shots would have left the stadium even without steroids. One thing is for sure, you can’t hit a homerun if you don’t make contact. By the way, Jimmy Foxx and Mickey Mantle regularly hit the ball as far as Bonds does. Increased muscle mass does not seem to have too much of an impact on how far the ball travels.

I don’t like Barry Bonds and I don’t want him to pass Ruth or Aaron on the all-time list, but that’s because I want our legends to be admirable. I want them to be someone I can introduce to my son as a hero. The only thing I admire about Bonds is that he is a great, great hitter. I think third place is perfect for him. He should be intentionally walked every at bat for the rest of his career.

Technorati Tags Babe Ruth, Barry Bonds, Hank Aaron, homerun, baseball