Barry Bonds reported to Giants camp today primed to continue his quest for both a World Championship and the all-time home-run record. He appeared a bit lighter both physically and in terms of the size of his entourage, which has been reduced due to the terms of his new contract.
He did have a surprising new teammate and locker buddy in the person of former A's ace Barry Zito. With another Barry to help keep the throngs of reporters busy, maybe the Giants locker room will be even more improved over the one last year. The Giants did seem to have a bit of chemistry last year and new manager Bruce Bochy may be the recipient of one of the more cohesive Giants teams in recent memory. Zito is just an unbelievable addition to this years staff, replacing Jason Schmitt at the top of the rotation.
Bonds appeared to be in great shape according to most accounts, rocketing five home runs on his first day. He appears a bit lighter than previous years, and certainly people will make of that what they will. Judging by his comments however, he doesn't seem to be any less combative than in the past. First day headlines will be about Bonds invitation to Feds to continue to investigate him. Like they needed more incentive.
It is good to see the two Barry's getting along and having fun with what could turn into a burdensome season due to the intense media coverage that promises to only get more intense as Bonds approaches Aaron.
If Zito's laid back attitude only slighlty rubs off on Bonds, maybe the team will gel into a contender. Giant fans can only hope. The season long HR chase only goes so far for fans weary of waiting for a World Series championship.
Another early sensation in Giants camp has been the pitching of first rounder Tim Lincecum. The smallish right-hander, throws bullets, with a devastating curveball to match. He is invoking memories of Tim Hudson and if he can have half the early success Hudson had for the A's, the rotation will be markedly improved. If either Lincecum or lefthander Johnathan Sanchez produces as a starter, the G-man could have the makings of a solid rotaion with Zito, Morris, Matt Cain and Noah Lowery as the projected top four starters.
As always the health of several players will hold the key to the Giants fortunes. Aside from Bonds, Armando Benitez, Ray Durham and Matt Morris need to remain healthy for the Giants to contend. Bengie Molina replaces Mike Matheny as the regular catcher. Molina just has to be solid defensively and contribute occasionally offensively. Dave Roberts will join ageless wonder Omar Vizquel at the top of the line-up and provide solid defense up the middle. As usual, however the Giants offense fortunes will ride on who protects Barry Bonds in the lineup and how well they produce. Durham and Rich Aurillia are the early candidates. Where have you gone Jeff Kent?
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