In the article, it also states that:
"Samson explained on Thursday that he didn't want to hire Bonds, saying he was “not worth the squeeze.” But, he was overruled by former owner Jeffrey Loria."
So the president of the club was overruled by the owner. Doesn't sound like sour grapes to me, more like 'We saw it coming but the orders were to march on.' We all have a boss.