Barry Bonds is hardly the shining example of the fans’ favorite. He has had more than his share of controversy while still in Major League Baseball, but the star slugger’s attitude changed after his second marriage. The Giants’ star retained his superior hitting ability on the diamond, but it was his deeds off the diamond that led him to the wrong side of people, but that also saw a shift. And perhaps there was an apparent reason.

The San Francisco Giants player had always been a player the media hadn’t enjoyed interacting with. That was largely down to how the star treated media members and sometimes even fans. But the second half of his career also saw another side of the legend. It’s a bit more controversial but also more gentle than before.

Barry Bonds’ Found Solace in His Second Wife, Liz Watson

Author John Bloom has discussed the 14x All-Star in his book ‘Barry Bonds – A Biography,’ making several revelations about the star both on and off the diamond. Many sought answers to some controversial questions in the material. However, Bonds’ gentler aspects were explored, too. Specifically, the effect that his second marriage had on the star.

On page 82, Bloom recalls that his second marriage really settled the star. Bloom writes that Bonds said he had never seemed more relaxed and stable in his personal life. Quoting the star, Bloom recalls Bonds admitting, “Ever since I got married [to Liz], I’ve had the best years of my career. That’s my soul mate.“

Bonds became more open and engaging to the press, and he worked hard to improve his image among fans. However, it was to little avail from the media, who continued their general mood with the slugger.

The Media Continues to Be Relentless With the Barry Bonds

Even while Barry Bonds may have wanted to be better with the media, their decision was more important in the matter. As far as they were concerned, they had made their minds up. Barry Bonds was never coming into the fold of the media darlings.

Read More: “I’m Tired of Always Being Criticized..”: Controversial Barry Bonds’ Trust Issues With the Media Spanned 2 Decades and This Is Why

Bonds, however, refused to relent. Doing all of his talking on the diamond with his bat instead of engaging in anything in black and white, Bonds just started to hit better. While many counted the athlete out because of age, Bonds enjoyed one of his best years in the league in 2001. Hitting the league record 73 homers in a single season, Bonds had his name recorded in the annals of MLB history, with the record standing even to this date.

Barry Bonds’ name will stand tall in MLB history, and despite his detractors and controversial allegations, the star slugger’s choices continue to define him. 

Watch This Story: From Unforeseen Beginnings to Unstoppable Greatness – The Story of Barry Bonds