Who Was Drafted Before Barry Bonds?

Barry Bonds, a name synonymous with baseball greatness and controversy, had an illustrious career marked by record-breaking achievements and unparalleled talent. Before he became the iconic figure we know, Bonds was a young prospect waiting to be discovered. The MLB draft is a pivotal moment for aspiring players, and many talented individuals were selected before Bonds. Understanding the landscape of the draft class before Barry Bonds offers a glimpse into the scouting evaluations and team strategies of that era. Delving into the careers of these players provides a fascinating comparison, highlighting the unpredictable nature of baseball prospects and the unique path that led Barry Bonds to stardom.

The 1985 MLB Draft: A Look at the Top Picks

The 1985 MLB draft was teeming with talent, and several players were chosen before Barry Bonds. To truly understand the context of Bonds' draft position, it's essential to examine the players who were selected ahead of him. These top picks represented the hopes and dreams of their respective franchises, with scouts and general managers banking on their potential to become future stars. While Barry Bonds ultimately exceeded the expectations placed upon him, the players drafted before him each had their own unique stories and contributions to the game. Let's take a closer look at some of these individuals and their careers.

B.J. Surhoff: The First Overall Pick

The first overall pick in the 1985 MLB draft was B.J. Surhoff, selected by the Milwaukee Brewers. Surhoff was a highly touted prospect out of the University of North Carolina, known for his versatility and hitting ability. He was projected to be a cornerstone player for the Brewers, capable of playing multiple positions and providing a consistent offensive presence. Surhoff's college career was exceptional, earning him numerous accolades and solidifying his status as the top prospect in the draft. The Brewers saw him as a player who could quickly contribute to the major league team and become a fan favorite. Expectations were high, and Surhoff carried the weight of being the number one overall pick.

Surhoff's major league career spanned 18 seasons, during which he played for several teams, including the Brewers, Orioles, and Braves. While he never reached the heights of superstardom, Surhoff enjoyed a productive and respectable career. He was a consistent hitter, known for his ability to get on base and drive in runs. Surhoff's versatility allowed him to play multiple positions, making him a valuable asset to his teams. He was a respected teammate and a reliable player, contributing to winning baseball wherever he went. Although he may not be a household name, B.J. Surhoff carved out a successful career and remains a notable figure in baseball history.

Will Clark: A Future Star

Selected second overall by the San Francisco Giants, Will Clark was another highly regarded prospect in the 1985 draft. Known for his sweet left-handed swing and exceptional hitting ability, Clark was seen as a potential superstar. He quickly lived up to the hype, making an immediate impact in the major leagues. Clark's arrival in San Francisco injected new life into the Giants franchise, and he quickly became a fan favorite. His performance on the field and charismatic personality made him one of the most popular players in the game.

Clark spent the majority of his career with the Giants, where he established himself as one of the premier hitters in the National League. He consistently hit for average and power, earning multiple All-Star selections and Silver Slugger Awards. Clark was also known for his clutch hitting, delivering key hits in crucial situations. His performance helped lead the Giants to several playoff appearances, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest players in franchise history. Will Clark's impact on the Giants and the game of baseball is undeniable, and he remains a beloved figure among fans.

Other Notable Players Drafted Before Bonds

While B.J. Surhoff and Will Clark were the top two picks, several other talented players were drafted before Barry Bonds. These players each had their own unique skills and potential, and their selection ahead of Bonds reflects the diverse range of talent in the 1985 draft class. Examining their careers provides further insight into the scouting evaluations and team strategies of that era. Here are a few more notable players drafted before Bonds:

Bobby Witt: A Promising Pitcher

Drafted third overall by the Texas Rangers, Bobby Witt was a highly touted pitching prospect. With a powerful fastball and promising secondary pitches, Witt was projected to be a future ace. The Rangers saw him as a potential cornerstone of their pitching staff, someone who could lead them to contention. Witt's minor league career was impressive, further solidifying his status as one of the top pitching prospects in the game. Expectations were high as he made his way to the major leagues.

Witt's major league career had its ups and downs. While he showed flashes of brilliance, he never quite reached the level of dominance that was projected for him. Witt spent several seasons with the Rangers before moving on to other teams. He had some successful years, but inconsistency plagued his career. Despite not living up to the initial hype, Bobby Witt had a respectable career and contributed to several teams.

Kurt Brown: An Early Pick

Kurt Brown was drafted by the Chicago White Sox. Brown did not reach the major leagues, his career a testament to the unpredictability of baseball.

Barry Bonds: A Draft Day Slide?

Barry Bonds was eventually selected sixth overall by the Pittsburgh Pirates. Despite his immense talent and potential, Bonds was not among the very top picks in the draft. Several factors may have contributed to his slightly lower draft position. Some scouts may have had concerns about his attitude or perceived lack of dedication. Others may have been hesitant due to his father, Bobby Bonds', sometimes difficult relationship with the media. Whatever the reasons, Bonds' draft day slide proved to be a blessing for the Pirates, as he would go on to become one of the greatest players in franchise history.

The Pirates' Gain

The Pittsburgh Pirates' decision to draft Barry Bonds proved to be one of the best in franchise history. Bonds quickly established himself as a star, winning multiple Gold Glove Awards for his outstanding defense and Silver Slugger Awards for his offensive prowess. He led the Pirates to several playoff appearances, revitalizing the franchise and bringing excitement back to the city of Pittsburgh. Bonds' impact on the Pirates was undeniable, and he became a beloved figure among fans.

During his time with the Pirates, Bonds showcased his exceptional talent and hinted at the greatness that was to come. He was a dynamic player who could impact the game in multiple ways. Bonds' combination of speed, power, and defensive ability made him one of the most exciting players to watch. His performance in Pittsburgh laid the foundation for his future success and cemented his status as a rising star in baseball.

Comparing Careers: Hindsight is 20/20

Looking back at the 1985 MLB draft, it's fascinating to compare the careers of the players selected before Barry Bonds. While some, like Will Clark, enjoyed successful and impactful careers, others did not reach their full potential. This highlights the unpredictable nature of baseball prospects and the challenges of projecting future success. Barry Bonds' career, marked by unparalleled achievements and controversy, stands as a testament to his extraordinary talent and determination.

The Unpredictability of Baseball

The MLB draft is often described as a crapshoot, and the 1985 draft is a perfect example of why. Despite the best efforts of scouts and general managers, predicting the future success of young players is an inexact science. Many factors can influence a player's career trajectory, including injuries, personal issues, and changes in the game. The players drafted before Barry Bonds each had their own unique set of circumstances, and their careers reflect the unpredictable nature of baseball.

Some players may have had the talent and potential but were unable to overcome injuries or other obstacles. Others may have lacked the mental toughness or work ethic required to succeed at the highest level. And some may have simply been victims of bad luck or poor timing. Whatever the reasons, the careers of the players drafted before Barry Bonds serve as a reminder that success in baseball is never guaranteed.

Bonds' Path to Greatness

Barry Bonds' path to greatness was not without its challenges and controversies. However, his exceptional talent, unwavering determination, and relentless work ethic propelled him to unprecedented heights. Bonds' career statistics are staggering, and he holds numerous records that may never be broken. His achievements on the field speak for themselves, and he is widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time.

Bonds' legacy is complex and controversial, but his impact on the game of baseball is undeniable. He changed the way the game was played and inspired a generation of players. Whether you admire him or not, Barry Bonds remains a central figure in baseball history, and his career will continue to be debated and analyzed for years to come.

Conclusion

The 1985 MLB draft was a pivotal moment in baseball history, and the players selected before Barry Bonds each had their own unique stories to tell. While some enjoyed successful careers, none reached the heights of superstardom achieved by Bonds. His selection at sixth overall proved to be a stroke of good fortune for the Pittsburgh Pirates, as he would go on to become one of the greatest players in franchise history. Looking back at the draft, it's clear that predicting future success is an inexact science, and the careers of the players drafted before Bonds serve as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of baseball. Barry Bonds' legacy, marked by unparalleled achievements and controversy, remains a central topic of discussion in the baseball world.