Roberto Martin Antonio Bonilla, born on February 23, 1963, is a former professional baseball player who made a significant impact in Major League Baseball (MLB) as a third baseman and outfielder. Bonilla's career spanned from 1986 to 2001, during which he became one of the most formidable hitters in the league. Known for his powerful batting, Bonilla was a key player for the Pittsburgh Pirates in the late 1980s and early 1990s, helping the team contend for multiple pennants. His ability to hit home runs, drive in RBIs, and consistently deliver extra-base hits made him a standout player during his prime.

Bonilla's peak years with the Pirates were marked by several individual accolades. He earned four All-Star selections and three Silver Slugger Awards, solidifying his reputation as one of the best offensive players in the National League. In 1990, he led the league in extra-base hits with 78, and in 1991, he topped the league in doubles with 44. His performance during this period made him a top candidate for the National League's Most Valuable Player award, further cementing his legacy as one of the premier players of his era.

In the 1991–92 offseason, Bonilla signed a record-breaking contract with the New York Mets, becoming the highest-paid player in MLB at the time. Despite the high expectations, Bonilla struggled to replicate his earlier success with the Mets, leading to criticism of the contract. However, he found success again with the Baltimore Orioles, helping the team reach the American League Championship Series in 1996. Bonilla also played a pivotal role in the Florida Marlins' 1997 World Series victory, adding a championship to his list of career achievements.

One of the most notable aspects of Bonilla's career is his deferred payment contract with the New York Mets, which has become a famous part of baseball lore. After being released by the Mets in 1999, Bonilla negotiated a deal that would pay him $1.19 million annually from 2011 to 2035, a date now celebrated as "Bobby Bonilla Day" by Mets fans. He also has a similar deferred contract with the Baltimore Orioles, receiving $500,000 annually from 2004 to 2028. Despite his later struggles on the field, Bonilla's financial acumen and his contributions to the game have left a lasting legacy in MLB history.

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