Barry Bonds worked with Astros’ Dexter Fowler
By Matt Fisher
How does a legendary hitter prepare to be a special assistant during Spring Training? He helps another young bat out.
Barry Bonds, the very disputed home run king, is in camp with the San Francisco Giants as a special hitting instructor this week. He’s never coached at any level, but is being asked to help influence some of the Giants offense. Bob Nightengale of USA Today says that in order to prepare for this week-long endeavor, Bonds mentored and worked out with Astros’ new center fielder, Dexter Fowler.
Bonds was apparently requested to work with Fowler at the behest of Glenallen Hill, who currently manages the Triple-A affiliate for the Colorado Rockies. Fowler was acquired via trade from the Rockies in the off season.
Bonds played in 22 Major League seasons with the Pittsburgh Pirates and San Francisco Giants. Buried beneath years of steroid controversy, Barry slugged 762 home runs during his career, which is currently recognized as the all-time home run mark. He also is the all-time leader in walks with 2558 and has 14 All-Star appearances and 7 MVP titles to his credit. Bonds was a lifetime .298/.444/.607 hitter.
Dexter Fowler has played in six seasons with the Rockies. He has hit 40 career home runs and is a career .270/.365/.423 hitter. He has an 8th-place Rookie of the Year finish under his belt.