#ThisDayThatYear: Barry Bonds becomes second player to join 40-40 club
On this day (September 26) in 1996, San Fransisco Giants left fielder Barry Bonds achieved a historic milestone by stealing his 40th base of the season. This made him the second player in Major League Baseball (MLB) history to join the 40/40 Club, (42 home runs). Bonds accomplished this feat during a game against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field. Here's more.
Bonds steals his 40th base of the season
In the top of the third inning, Bonds made history by smoothly stealing second base, as Jeff Reed's throw bounced before reaching the bag. This achievement made him the first National League player to join the 40-40 club. The Giants won the game 9-3, featuring a dominant 7-run seventh inning. Oakland Athletics Jose Canseco was the first 40-40 club member in 1988, managing 42-40.
Other major league records owned by Bonds
Bonds holds the record for most career home runs with 762 in 22 seasons and set the single-season record with 73 homers in 2001. Notably, he is the only member of the 500-500 Club (762 homers, 514 stolen bases), with no other player reaching even the 400 in both categories. Additionally, Bonds is one of only five players ever to join the 40-40 Club.
Bonds' stellar career stats
Bonds played in the MLB for 22 seasons for the Giants and the Pittsburgh Pirates. According to Statmuse, Bonds finished his remarkable career with a .298 batting average, 2,935 hits, 762 home runs, 1,996 RBIs and 2,227 runs scored. His accolades include 8 Gold Glove Awards, 7 National League MVP Awards, and 12 Silver Slugger Awards, showcasing his exceptional talent in the game.
