How good was Barry Bonds before Steroids?

By Oliver Wiener March 30, 2024 18:22

Photo by Doug Pensinger/Getty Images

Barry Bonds is widely regarded as one of the most talented baseball players in the history of the sport.

His career is often overshadowed by the controversy surrounding his alleged steroid use during the latter part of his playing days.

However, it's essential to examine Bonds' career before the steroid era to truly understand and appreciate his exceptional abilities and achievements.

Early Career and Talent

Barry Bonds was born on July 24, 1964, in Riverside, California. His father, Bobby Bonds, was a former MLB player, and Barry grew up around the sport, learning invaluable lessons from his father.

Bonds attended Junipero Serra High School in San Mateo, where his exceptional baseball skills quickly became evident. He was drafted by the San Francisco Giants in the second round of the 1982 MLB draft, marking the beginning of a remarkable career.

Bonds made his MLB debut with the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1986, and it didn't take long for him to showcase his extraordinary talent.

Even before the steroid allegations, Bonds was widely regarded as one of the most complete players in the game. His combination of power, speed, and defensive prowess set him apart from his peers.

Pre-Steroid Achievements

MVP Awards and All-Star Appearances

Before the steroid era, Bonds had already established himself as a force to be reckoned with in Major League Baseball. He won his first National League MVP award in 1990 while playing for the Pittsburgh Pirates.

This was just the beginning of a remarkable run of accolades and accomplishments. Bonds went on to win a total of 7 MVP awards and earned 14 selections in the All-Star Game throughout his career, with 2 more coming after the alleged steroid use, solidifying his status as one of the most dominant players in the history of the sport.

Offensive and Defensive Prowess

Before the steroid allegations, Bonds was known for his exceptional offensive and defensive skills. He was a multi-dimensional player who could impact the game in various ways.

His offensive numbers were staggering, with an impressive career batting average of .298, 411 stolen bases, and a staggering 762 home runs, the latter of which still stands as the all-time record in MLB history.

Defensively, Bonds was equally exceptional. He won 8 Gold Glove Awards for his outstanding play in the outfield, showcasing his versatility and complete skill set as a player.

Impact on the Game

Barry Bonds' impact on the game of baseball before the steroid era cannot be overstated. He was a generational talent who drew fans to the ballpark with his electrifying play.

His combination of power, speed, and defensive prowess made him a truly unique player, and his influence extended far beyond the field.

Bonds' accomplishments before the steroid era solidify his place among the all-time greats in baseball history.

Barry Bonds' career before the steroid era was nothing short of remarkable. His exceptional talent, numerous accolades, and impact on the game firmly establish him as one of the greatest players to ever grace the diamond.

While the steroid controversy has undoubtedly cast a shadow over his legacy, it's important to acknowledge and appreciate Bonds' extraordinary abilities and achievements before the allegations arose.