Will sponsors pull or hold of on deals with Barry Bonds in light of the looming steroids issue? The Giants aren’t planning on doing anything differently this year. They’ll celebrate each milestone the same way they always have. It’s understandable for the Giants to stand by him. They have little else that draws fans into the park and little else to offer in terms of star power. So until more compelling evidence comes up, they’ve got little to gain by acting as if something is amiss.

Back in March, Darren Rovell discussed the potential business implications of a the steroids scandal. Today, the Chronicle covers the implications for Bonds if he can’t untangle himself from this scandal. It’s pretty clear that he used the stuff, so his marketing potential seems to me to be tied up in how many people believe him and his explanations. If he breaks Hank Aaron’s record, he may not see the salvation that he would otherwise see for a guy that isn’t exactly popular in baseball. In fact, I think that’s what makes the sponsorship situation even tougher for him. He’s not very popular outside of Giants country (and even there), so a lot of people aren’t giving him the benefit of the doubt.

Rovell’s article yesterday shows that none of Bonds’ current sponsors have cancelled any deals. That being said, MasterCard cancelled a meeting with MLB for some sort of promo tied to Bonds and the home run record. Imagine that campaign…

Hiring a strength trainer to bulk you up: $0

“Helping” an old friend out: $15,000

Thanking him for that “flaxseed oil” cream and clear substance: $70,000

Being the home run king: priceless.

Some things money can’t buy. For everything else, there’s MasterCard.

Yeah, I guess that one won’t really play too well.