Barry Bonds has never been the media’s favorite. While Bonds has been acknowledged on numerous occasions as one of the finest hitters on the diamond, his reputation isn’t one that has been fully appreciated. His approach with the media and his teammates have undoubtedly contributed to it. And every now and then, a story makes clear why Bonds was never the model clubhouse presence.

In his book ‘Love Me Hate Me – Barry Bonds‘, author Jeff Pearlman, recounts an incident that makes clear just why Bonds’ teammates weren’t always his greatest fans. In a list of stories to join the long list, Pearlman adds a story of one of Bonds’ college teammates. And while Bonds’ memory was never the greatest, it certainly shouldn’t have failed him that time.

Barry Bonds’ “Amnesia” Moment

The incident occurred in the September of 2005. As Pearlman recounts on page 3 of the book, he was interviewing Bonds when he had just been shown off by Bonds for missing out on a detail despite having done his research. When Pearlman spoke to ESPN cameraman Pedro Martinez about the incident, he recounted a similar story.

Martinez had apparently spoken to Bonds about his neighbor who had been on Bonds’ college team when he played at Arizona State. Said Martinez, “A few months ago I went up to Barry and told him that my neighbor in Arizona is Jose Rodiles.” “Barry said, ‘I don’t know that name,’ ”

Martinez even reminded Bonds that the two were college teammates but Bonds refused to cop to it. Gomez apparently later called Rodiles and told him of Bonds’ apparent amnesia. “That’s funny,” said Rodiles. “Because the guy was in my f*cking wedding.”

The Sultan of Shot – Never a Media Darling

It’s not a secret that Bonds’ behavior with the media wasn’t always savvy. Add to that the star wasn’t pally with the fans either. He even went out of his way sometimes to avoid doing things for the fans that otherwise could’ve stood the chance to win them over.

Read More: Did You Know That Controversial and Arrogant Barry Bonds Was Actually Polite and Helpful?

Perhaps even just simple things would’ve held the superstar in better stead if he would’ve done better with the media. But even while Bonds’ reputation as a hitter remains alive and well in the league, his legacy as a player is not as appreciated.

The controversial second half of his career certainly didn’t do him any favors either. He may hold the all-time record for home runs in the league with 762. But when Bonds’ name is brought up in a conversation, it’s always followed by a barrage of disagreement.

Pearlman’s stories allow some context into the player and his thinking. But perhaps a relooking at his legacy is required if the fans are to truly understand him correctly.

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