The San Francisco Giants have had a long history of influential members of its organization return to the team as members of the front office after their playing days were over. Notably, Willie Mays and Willie McCovey are two Giants legends that remain influential to this day.
Tuesday, the Giants welcomed another legend back into the organization when they announced that long-time left fielder Barry Bonds would be coming back to the organization as an advisor to CEO Larry Baer.
Baer was asked on Gary and Larry why both sides waited so long for a reunion. Baer stated that this was simply the right time for Bonds to come back.
“He belongs with us, able to figure out ways to make the Giants better — both perhaps working with some the young players, not perhaps, definitely working with some of the young players in spring training and the minor leagues,” Baer said. “As well as as working on the business side with folks in the community and sponsors, in fact doing the role that many of his predecessors, Hall of Fame players have taken.”
Baer also said the team and Bonds never discussed the hitting coach role.
“In 2008, he wanted to play. He wasn’t signed, there were legal issues, there was a lot of other distractions, and he wanted to try his hand at coaching at the major-league level. So the time was right.”
Listen to the full interview below.
