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May 12, 2006

Prior Pass On Bonds

From the San Francisco Chronicle -

Sources around the New York Yankees tell the story of an organizational meeting several years ago, including a few key players, about the possibility of acquiring Barry Bonds. This was well before "Game of Shadows," the prospect of federal intervention or the deterioration of Bonds' right knee. At the time, Bonds' home-run stroke was fearsome and unparalleled. The answer, even then, was a resounding and unanimous "no."

To this day, it seems that the Yankees just aren't interested in a player who wants special clubhouse privileges, an all-access entourage, his own self-serving television show and 100 percent control over when he plays _ to say nothing of the steroid issues surrounding Bonds.

Just imagine the mess it would have been if the Yankees had Bonds, Giambi and Sheffield when BALCO hit. Then again, depending on when this meeting was, there's a chance that having Bonds could have led to not getting Giambi and/or Sheffield.

I'm about half-done with Game of Shadows now. And, from what I'm reading, the Yankees made the right call on this one.

Posted by Steve Lombardi at May 12, 2006 12:59 PM

Comments

I thought it to be a good idea back in 1992, when he left Pittsburgh.

I couldn't care less about the "mess," like I didn't care when the Yanks brought Strawberry & Howe on board. If they can contribute, then go for it.

But then again, given a city that really didn't appreciate Rickey, I'd say passing on Bonds probably was the right thing to do.

Posted by: Raf [TypeKey Profile Page] at May 12, 2006 01:57 PM