The Giants eased past the San Diego Padres 3-1 at Pac Bell Park to keep their play-off hopes alive.

But all eyes were on Bonds as he struck off Chuck McElroy in the sixth inning to close in on a seemingly inevitable regular season record.

The Giants star had suffered against McElroy in the past but kept his incredible run going with the 563rd homer of his career.

"He has always given me problems," Bonds admitted. "He always pitches me well.

"Even when he makes a mistake, I still haven't had an opportunity to take advantage. Right now, everything is working right."

McGwire set the single-season record of 70 in 1998 for the St Louis Cardinals, and Bonds is on course to beat that comfortably.

But with the regular season drawing to a close and the Giants two games behind the Arizona Diamondbacks, Bonds insists he is only concerned about ensuring a play-off place.

"I don't feel pressure with the home run race," Bonds said. "I feel pressure with the pennant race. Arizona, unfortunately, is not co-operating."