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Slugger farewell Sept. 26: Controversial home-run king Barry Bonds plays his final game as a San Francisco Giant. Msnbc.com's Dara Brown reports. |
About a dozen fans waited outside the player parking lot for a final chance at the slugger’s autograph. Inside the ballpark, a large logo reading “BONDS 25” was painted on the field in black over Bonds’ defensive spot.
A series of video clips — many of Bonds’ milestone home runs — were shown during the game as a tribute to No. 25. Bonds was told last Thursday by owner Peter Magowan, who also watched closely as Bonds took his cuts, he would not be re-signed for a 16th season with the Giants.
“I think there’s a lot of sadness,” executive vice president Larry Baer said Wednesday. “When you step back from the sadness, you challenge yourself to think of any other run — 15 years in one city. ... It’s a very simple two words, but thank you.”
Bonds had an MRI exam on his toe Wednesday, and he was careful when he slipped his foot into his shoes as he got dressed.
“It’s still swollen. I’m serious. It’s still sore,” Bonds said. “It is not broken. That’s good.”
Bonds broke Hank Aaron’s record with his 756th home run in this ballpark on Aug. 7. The large banners commemorating Bonds’ home run record still hang from the light posts on either side of the main center-field scoreboard.
Baer said even if Bonds plays next season in the American League, the club might consider signing him briefly so he could retire as a Giant.
“Whenever the retirement is, we’ll talk and see what he wants to do,” Baer said.
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