58-year-old legendary former baseball player Barry Bonds claims he deserves some honors for his immense contribution to the sport, not humiliation.
Barry was a celebrated athlete until he was accused of using performance-enhancing drugs back in 1999. Barry was later vindicated by the court after the case was dismissed, however, the baseball community still believes he does not deserve any honorable mention because of the scandal.
In a recent podcast, Barry considered one of the greatest players of all time, claimed the board’s decision was unfavorable, and that he deserved to be in the Hall of Famer and not be punished twice for a past mistake. Barry continued that he suffered every necessary consequence of his actions and that baseball’s refusal to honor him is an unnecessary attempt to punish him for a crime he has already been punished for.
Details via TMZ;
Barry Bonds is patiently waiting for Cooperstown to unlock its doors and finally let him in … saying he personally feels like he belongs in the Baseball Hall of Fame, as he was never convicted of using steroids.
The home run king made a rare statement on his H.O.F. snub with the “Hollywood Swingin’” podcast this week … saying he is bothered by the fact his own sport continues to hold a grudge when the court of law has vindicated him.
Of course, BB is widely considered one of, if not the greatest, athletes to ever step foot in the batter’s box … but his legacy was tarnished by allegations of using performance-enhancing drugs
But, Barry says records are records, and MLB already punishes players when they break rules … so he’s upset that the baseball hall has decided to “double punish” people who have made mistakes at some point in their careers.
Bonds was convicted of obstruction of justice back in 2011 over his alleged use of PEDs … but ultimately, the case was dropped.
Barry believes the sentence overturn should justify his place in the Hall … and the media does not hold the higher ground when it comes to determining who should be regarded as the greats.
Barry — who hit 762 home runs during his career — was an MVP before anyone ever accused him of using ‘roids … and many believe he belongs in the Hall despite the scandal.
Bonds lost his shot at getting in the Hall on his 10th year of eligibility … but the door is not completely closed yet, as he could potentially have his ticket punched in 2026.
When do we shut the door on giving second chances? Cheating should be seriously discouraged. I believe in second chances, but I do not believe in honoring cheats. So Barry is a good athlete, but he should accept the consequences of his actions.
Should Barry Bonds be in the Hall of Fame? @HwoodSwingin https://t.co/iIkgmf7OyX pic.twitter.com/Q3RZV9pANg
— Adam Gracia (@AdamRGracia) July 10, 2023
