Definition
Robert Malcolm “Bobby” Bonds (March 15 1946 – August 23 2003) was an American professional baseball outfielder who played in Major League Baseball (MLB) from 1968 to 1981, noted for his combination of power hitting and base‑stealing ability.
Overview
Bonds began his MLB career with the San Francisco Giants, debuting on September 13 1968. Over a 14‑season career he also played for the New York Yankees, Houston Astros, Texas Rangers, and Cleveland Indians, and concluded his professional playing days with a brief stint in Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball for the Yomiuri Giants in 1982. He was a two‑time All‑Star (1973, 1974), won a Gold Glove Award in 1975, and was the first player in MLB history to record a 30‑home‑run, 30‑stolen‑base season (1973). Over his MLB tenure, Bonds compiled a .273 batting average, 332 home runs, 1,006 runs batted in, and 461 stolen bases. He died at age 57 from a heart attack in San Francisco.
Etymology/Origin
The given name “Bobby” is a common diminutive of “Robert,” derived from the Germanic elements hrod (“fame”) and beraht (“bright”). The surname “Bonds” is of English origin, historically occupational or descriptive, relating to the word “bond” meaning a tie, pledge, or financial guarantee.
Characteristics
- Power‑speed profile: Bonds was among the early exemplars of a player who could simultaneously produce high home‑run totals and accumulate significant stolen‑base counts, a rare combination at the time.
- Defensive ability: Recognized for a strong throwing arm in right field, earning him a Gold Glove award.
- Physical stature: Stood 6 ft 1 in (185 cm) tall and weighed approximately 210 lb (95 kg) during his playing prime, providing a balance of strength and speed.
- Influence: His athletic profile influenced scouting and evaluation criteria for “30‑30” players and contributed to the development of advanced metrics that assess combined power and speed.
- Legacy: Father of Barry Bonds, who later set MLB records for home runs. Bobby Bonds’ own career is frequently cited in discussions of multi‑dimensional players.
Related Topics
- Barry Bonds (son, former MLB player)
- 30‑30 club (players with ≥30 home runs and ≥30 stolen bases in a single season)
- San Francisco Giants franchise history
- Major League Baseball Gold Glove Award
- Power‑speed players in baseball analytics
- Nippon Professional Baseball (Japan) – Yomiuri Giants
- MLB All‑Star Game (1970s)