While the Giants consider whether to complete their strained negotiations with Bonds or back out, baseball officials say Rod Barajas' story could prove pivotal. If the Giants, who reached a preliminary deal with Bonds for $16 million six weeks ago, decide that they have had enough of Bonds and want to set him free, Barajas' name is sure to come up. "The union didn't step in and stop that one," said a lawyer who is not part of the Bonds negotiations. "The Giants have to know that. Why would it be OK for the player but not the club?"