Bonds became the 17th player to reach 500. All-Star watched the ball for a moment, then jumped for joy before rounding the bases. He pounced on home plate with both feet as Pacific Bell Park sparkled with flashbulbs. Bonds embraced Rich Aurilia, who tripled to start the inning, and his father, former major leaguer Bobby Bonds. His wife Liz ran to his arms.
Bonds leaps out of the batters box.
I want to thank Willie Mays for being here and Willie McCovey. McCovey is 11th with 521. The fans had been waiting for this all night. Those in the outfield bleachers and along the top of the right-field wall would rise in anticipation of each Bonds appearance. The cove was filled with boats, and even a man in a wetsuit floating on a surfboard.