Good question...what capacity should Barry Bonds be utilized as he returns to play in 2005?

Heard Kuip on KNBR give his observations of the Bonds pre-game workout routine for Monday's game. Duane said something interesting as far as those who were doing the Bonds workouts had Barry play LF as others took their BP.

Barry never knew when a ball would come his way nor if it would be a fly ball or a grounder. That sounds like he is simulating actual game conditions. Also, the workout would consist of fielding then resting (as if he were in a dugout between innings) and then returning to LF to play defense.

It seems like Bonds has an idea to come back and play fulltime as a starter. How much of a game he plays when he starts will likely be dictated by the game situation (is it a blowout, should the Giants pull Bonds out for defensive reasons, do they need to put a pinch-runner in for Bonds).

IMO, Bonds will start games but come out of games part way through. Also, I am doubtful that Barry will play consecutive games and playing a day game after a night game is definitely a no-no. If Barry does this, he could still make himself available to pinch-hit in games he doesn't start. Who says having Bonds back doesn't influence how a game is played?