How do the veteran sluggers match up? RedEye takes a look.
HOME RUNS
BONDS
During his record-breaking year, 2001, Bonds hit a dinger every 6.52 at-bats. He has 12 on the young season.
SOSA
The 1998 MVP hit 66 long balls that season, launching one every 9.74 at-bats. He’s hit 10 this season for the Rangers.
BEST MOMENT
BONDS
Hitting No. 71 to break Mark McGwire’s single-season record in ’01.
SOSA
He may never have looked happier than when he won the Home Run Derby in Atlanta in 2000, ending swirling trade rumors and winning over Cubs fans.
WORST MOMENT
BONDS
So many to choose from, but in 2004 Bonds said he may have unknowingly used steroids by applying cream he thought acted as a pain reliever.
SOSA
It could be 2003 when he was suspended for using a corked bat or the following season when he left Wrigley 15 minutes after the game started. Take your pick.
CURRENT POPULARITY
BONDS
Already disliked by many fans, the slugger drew even more criticism when he said he doesn’t plan to give the Hall of Fame his memorabilia if he breaks the record.
SOSA
When he hits 600, it will be the most you’ve heard about him since he left the Cubs in 2004. Any P.R. has been good P.R. for the once-and-former has-been.
IMPACT ON TEAM
BONDS
Huge. But that is both good and bad. As Bonds struggles, the Giants have struggled too.
SOSA
He may not play defense, but Sosa’s incredibly valuable to his team. He leads the Rangers with 10 homers and 39 RBIs on the year.
THE WINNER: It may be hard for some to admit, but Bonds still has the edge. Sosa has been the bigger surprise this year, but Bonds’ numbers are just as good. Bonds also is well on his way to breaking the all-time record, while Sosa is just now reaching the 600-homer plateau. Bonds’ injuries kept him out for parts of recent seasons, but Sosa’s lack of production in 2005 — coupled with his absence in 2006 — shows he may face an uphill battle if he wants to reach 700.
