SAN FRANCISCO — It seems there’s a new connection in town.
My name is Peyton. Peyton Bonds.
Tony Vitello has a way to go before he can lead the University of Tennessee to a national championship, and he’s certainly a long way from the dugout where Barry Bonds made his final appearance in 2007.
The name itself, however, is iconic.
“Whenever we have a player with the last name Bonds, we can’t help but feel excited,” said Vitello.
This isn’t mere coincidence; Barry Bonds’ heritage continues in the same franchise where he became one of baseball’s most legendary hitters and the all-time home run leader.
His nephew—not just anyone, but the son of his brother Bobby Jr.—has turned out to be quite an outfield prospect, making waves by being picked 90th overall in Saturday’s amateur draft.
And guess who called his name? The Giants.
This 6-foot-5 center fielder, a right-handed hitter, was unique on the first day of the draft, being the only one of the Giants’ five selections to genuinely earn his spot.
“His physique and skills definitely stand out,” Vitello noted, although he admitted he’s only seen a few videos so far. “From what I’ve observed, he appears to have an extraordinary instinct for the game, and I’m really looking forward to seeing that in action.”
Coming from a lineage that includes a record-holding player and another who made it to the pros, it makes sense where his natural talent stems from.
Peyton aspires to follow in the footsteps of Barry and his grandfather Bobby, aiming to become the third generation of Bonds to hit the big leagues. Payton’s dad was also drafted, making his way through the Giants’ system, yet he reached only Triple-A in 1998.
Still, it wasn’t merely family connections that caught the Giants’ eye.
“We picked him based on his talent and our faith in him,” said scouting director Michael Holmes. “He’s a standout, thanks to Peyton Bonds.”
Interestingly, Barry currently doesn’t have a formal connection with the Giants. He used to be a familiar face at the batting cages until last year, but his recent appearance at a Netflix event was his only visit to the park this season.
Although Bonds had previously worked with the organization as a special advisor, that contract lapsed after last season and hasn’t been renewed. It’s uncertain whether his nephew’s involvement will rekindle any relationship.
Holmes shared that the Giants have been watching Peyton Bonds since the previous spring when they drafted his Rutgers teammate, outfielder Trevor Cohen, in the second round.
Last season, Bonds participated in 36 games as a junior, batting .352 and achieving a .535 slugging percentage. His on-base percentage of .436 aligns closely with his uncle’s career average of .444.
If Peyton makes it to Oracle Park, he’ll serve as a daily reminder of Barry’s legendary career total—762. That number proudly shines in right field alongside three other franchise home run leaders, including Barry’s godfather, Willie Mays.
Holmes described Peyton as “a truly unique talent.” Only six of his hits left the yard, but the Giants are confident they can help him boost his power with some technical tweaks, leveraging his speed.
“We have a solid athlete in center field who makes solid contact,” Holmes remarked. “It’s an excellent starting point.”
