It tells us that Bonds' body is falling apart piece by piece, and his playing health is a matter of deteriorating degrees. His knees are shot from 20 summers of running and sprinting to steal bases. He's nearly 42 and has played close to 2,800 games with 9,299 at-bats. He's has a bad back, a bad left elbow and arthritic knees with little or no cartilage left to absorb the pounding.

Bonds will need knee replacement surgery eventually just to walk normally. Added weight -- he's bigger than ever -- means more strain on his body. Bonds is probably 85 percent of what he was before, but is squeezing out every ounce of talent left.

Are the Giants buyers or sellers this year? If buyers, can we please get a first baseman?
-- James Y., San Francisco

The physical problems endured by first baseman Lance Niekro indicate he's either cursed with bad luck or extra vulnerable to injury, but between disablements he's batted .293 with two homers and eight RBIs in 11 games. That's what's kept Niekro around -- so far.

Giants general manager Brian Sabean said Sunday that before any trade for a regular first sacker is considered, he'll give Niekro another chance.

"He's showing signs of coming around ... and it's prudent to get him back in there. Hopefully he can pick up where he left off," said the GM.

Still, the 27-year-old, expected to come off the DL (right groin) sometime this week, had right shoulder bursitis earlier this year, nagging problems last season, an ankle injury in 2004, fractured left hand in 2002, right shoulder surgery in 2001 ... you get the picture.

Now that we've seen Armando Benitez blow save after save, is it safe to say we won't see him in a Giants uniform next year? Apparently the Braves are interested. With Jeremy Accardo, Steve Kline and Brad Hennessy looking good as relievers, is a trade involving Benitez possible even this season?
-- Steve L., Sonoma, Calif.

That's a frequently asked question. I suspect if any club is willing to acquire Benitez, the Giants would jump at the chance. While Benitez's ERA is only 2.45 and he sports a 4-1 record, his four blown saves in 10 chances is hardly impressive. The Giants love Accardo's stuff and the talent of Triple-A Fresno relievers Jack Taschner and Brian Wilson. Unless Benitez throws zeroes consistently, he won't be back in 2007.

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Obviously, the Giants need another bat in the lineup. Have you heard any rumors or news on what players the Giants may pursue?
-- Matt L., San Francisco

Rumors are taking wing. The Nats' Alfonso Soriano has been mentioned along with former Giant Reggie Sanders, while among first base candidates are the Brewers' Carlos Lee and Pittsburgh's Craig Wilson.

Sabean will make a move at the midway point, but so far there's only a short list of probable acquisitions.

What are the chances Bonds plays with the Giants next year? Is switching to the American League a legitmate possiblity or do you think he would rather retire? It would kill me to see one of the greatest players of all time not retire as a Giant.
-- Mark S., Highsland Ranch, Colo.

Unless Bonds can keep from getting hurt, there's doubt he would even return next season. Sure, the man can hit -- but not nearly as effectively as only two seasons ago. He says he'd love to finish his career in San Francisco, and other clubs may be reluctant to sign Bonds, considering his baggage. DH? Considering his stature as a probable future Hall of Famer, it would be almost embarrassing for Bonds to hobble around the bases in one last go-round.