Barry Bonding

On winning his record fifth MVP award, Barry Bonds alluded to feeling unfulfilled. He wants more and it's not just a World Series ring that he's alluding to. Is it that shiny new bicycle, a model train, or a date to the prom? No, he's well taken care of in those areas.

What Bonds needs is to be loved:

``I wish I was liked as much as them [Michael Jordan, Wayne Gretzky, and Joe Montana] for the accomplishments I have,'' Bonds said from Japan, where he is on the major league all-star tour. ``I wish I had the same respect as them. People really admire their accomplishments.''

Hey Bondsy, who couldn't love the greatest hitter of his generation? Especially when he says things like, ''I'm trying to figure out why a 38-year-old is still playing like this.'' He's refreshing, he's delightful, he's d-sugar-free.

America, don't dwell on his press clippings. Admire this talent while he lasts. Because we won't see his kind for some time.