Barry Bonds decided he is unwilling to risk his health in the World Baseball Classic.

If he's going to get hurt, the slugger will do so in a San Francisco uniform.

Bonds, no stranger to changing his mind, withdrew from the 16-nation tournament Monday because he wants to avoid the chance of an injury that might jeopardize what could be his final season with the Giants.

"When my name was first announced for the WBC, my gut reaction was that I wanted to play. After much thought and discussion with my family I have decided to remove myself from the upcoming World Baseball Classic roster," Bonds wrote on his Web site, www.barrybonds.com.

It's ok Barry, we understand.  You're an old man, and especially frail now that you can't take your steroids anymore.  Don't worry, we get it.  No need to explain.