Barry Bonds

Salary

During the 2005 season, Barry Bonds is the second highest paid player in Major League Baseball at $22 million. However, he spent almost the entire season on the disabled list with a chronic knee problem. After the Giants exercised an option in late 2004, Bonds is guaranteed $18 million for the 2006 season.

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Bonds' salary is also leading many to believe that a trade may be in the works. Some consider it the logical solution for both Bonds and the Giants. Bonds, who will turn 42 next July, may be better off as a designated hitter next season than trying to play left field regularly on his thrice-surgically repaired right knee. The Giants, it is presumed, may be better off moving forward without Bonds than spending another season fretting over his availability at a price of $18 million; however, the box-office benefits to the club of Bonds' seemingly-inevitable chase to overtake Babe Ruth's 714 home runs, if not Hank Aaron's 755, could result in Bonds' continued sojourn in San Francisco. Giants owner Peter Magowan says he wants Bonds back but would not rule out a trade. However, as a player with 10 years of major league service (five with the same club), Bonds must approve any deal, and he has stated on the record that he will not accept a trade.

Related Topics:
Designated hitter - Left field - Babe Ruth - Hank Aaron

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