Wilmer Flores is channeling his inner Barry Bonds in San Francisco.
The 33-year-old Giants infielder has launched six home runs in the team’s first 14 games this season, putting him in rare company. The only other San Francisco player to accomplish that feat this century? Bonds himself, who actually did it four times between 2000-2004.
Flores isn’t just hitting for power, either. He’s already driven in 19 runs, reaching that mark at the same pace Bonds did during his legendary 2004 campaign.
Let’s be clear: Flores has never been mistaken for a slugger of Bonds’ caliber. After a promising start with the Mets and several solid seasons in San Francisco, he’s established himself as a dependable veteran presence rather than a middle-of-the-order force.
That’s what makes this hot streak so fascinating. Baseball gives us these moments where solid players suddenly perform like all-time greats, if only for a brief stretch.
What makes Flores’ surge even more valuable is his standing in the clubhouse. He’s long been a fan favorite dating back to his emotional moments with the Mets, and his teammates love him. When a respected veteran starts producing like this, it lifts the entire team.
The Giants are reaping the benefits of both Flores’ tangible production and the intangible energy he brings. It’s creating the kind of positive momentum that makes teams difficult to beat.
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