Barry Bonds Calls Shohei Ohtani a 'Complete Player' but Says 'Game Is Way Different'

Shohei Ohtani has dazzled the baseball world with his incredible two-way play, but according to Barry Bonds, the game isn’t quite as tough as it used to be. Bonds, widely regarded as one of the greatest hitters in baseball history, shared his thoughts on the evolution of the game during an appearance on the "All The Smoke" podcast.

"The game has just changed," Bonds noted. "It’s way different than when I played. The same way Michael [Jordan] talks about basketball or others do. Back in my day, Ohtani wouldn’t hit two home runs without seeing one pitch fly by his ear. And if he stole two bases, someone would’ve gone after his kneecap. It was a different world back then." Bold words from a man who knows a thing or two about the intensity of the old-school game.

Despite his critiques, Bonds made it clear he isn’t downplaying Ohtani’s talent. "The pitching and hitting have been outstanding for what he’s done," he added. "Baserunning. He’s a complete player. There’s no doubt about the type of player he is and what he’s accomplished in his career." High praise, even if it came with a side of "back-in-my-day" nostalgia.

Bonds also took a lighthearted jab at how much more expressive players can be today, saying, "They should be better than us hitting-wise. They can hit a home run, throw their bat in the air, run around, grab a taco, and get a limo ride back. All the antics we weren’t allowed to do back then." His humor underscores how much the game’s culture has shifted, with celebrations now encouraged rather than punished.

Barry Bonds, of course, is no stranger to controversy. Holding the MLB record for most career home runs at 762, he remains a polarizing figure due to his connection to Major League Baseball’s steroid era. His Hall of Fame candidacy has been a hot topic, with voters repeatedly denying him induction due to allegations of performance-enhancing drug use during his playing days. Bonds’ legal troubles didn’t help his case either, as he faced perjury and obstruction of justice charges related to the BALCO steroid investigation. Though eventually exonerated, the damage to his reputation lingered.

Meanwhile, Ohtani has dealt with his own off-field drama, though he was the victim rather than the instigator. Earlier this offseason, his former interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara, was caught stealing millions from Ohtani’s bank account to cover gambling debts. Federal prosecutors have sought a 57-month prison sentence for Mizuhara, along with restitution payments exceeding $18 million. Ohtani has managed to keep his focus on the field, continuing to amaze fans with his historic performances.

Whether you agree with Bonds’ take or not, one thing is clear: Shohei Ohtani has earned his place among baseball’s elite. And if Bonds thinks the game is easier now, well, maybe that’s just an inevitable side effect of progress. After all, every legend has their era, and Ohtani is undoubtedly owning his.