Greg Maddux had to take a few extra minutes of preparation before facing the San Francisco Giants for the first time since they cut ties with Barry Bonds.
Maddux has faced Bonds more than any other hitter in his storied career and always knew what his strategy would be against the slugger with the game on the line.
Maddux managed just fine after a shaky first inning, retiring 19 of his final 20 batters to earn his 348th win and spoil the Giants’ home opener by leading the San Diego Padres to an 8-4 victory Monday.
“It is different,” Maddux said. “He’s probably the best player I’ve ever had a chance to face. I know when you used to go over the Giants lineup, you worried about eight guys because you know you’re going to walk Barry if it matters. I actually had to worry about one more guy. It took a little bit longer.”
