SAN FRANCISCO -- In the end, Barry Bonds found his best deal in the Bay.
Eager to sign a multiyear contract but unable to draw a bunch of megabucks offers, the new home-run king put aside his free agent pursuit Wednesday and decided to remain with the San Francisco Giants.
Bonds accepted the Giants´ offer of salary arbitration several hours before a midnight EST deadline. Now considered a signed player, he could wind up with a one-year contract worth at least $20 million.
After hitting 73 home runs, breaking Babe Ruth´s single-season marks for slugging percentage and walks, and winning his record fourth MVP award, Bonds hoped to cash in.
But the 37-year-old outfielder was not showered with many lucrative offers. Instead, the only public bid came earlier this month from the Giants, a proposal for $72 million over four years.
"Quite frankly, it will come down to our ability to pay," Giants general manager Brian Sabean said at the time. "We can only go so far."
Bonds still would prefer to sign a multiyear deal, said his agent, Scott Boras.
"Barry will continue to work toward that," Boras said Wednesday.
There was early speculation that the New York Yankees and Mets might be interested. But Bonds´ price –– he was said to be seeking $100 million over five years –– his age and his reputation as a selfish teammate probably scared away some potential suitors.
"Barry had many things to consider," Boras said.
In the final season of a $30.7 million, three-year extension, Bonds broke loose for one of the greatest power displays in baseball history.
Bonds had an .863 slugging percentage and 177 walks, batting .328 with 137 RBIs.
On the final weekend of the season, Bonds broke Mark McGwire´s record of 70 home runs set in 1998. In ceremonies held on the field at Pacific Bell Park after hitting No. 71, Giants fans shouted "Sign him! Sign him!" when team owner Peter Magowan took the podium.
