The Giants bounced back from the two agonizing losses that opened the series with consecutive wins to salvage a split. Last night they overcame a 5-0 deficit to take a 6-5 lead in the 9th that took two pitchers to save, but save they did. Today was also a comeback win, with three runs in the bottom of the 3rd after a Manny Machado two-run homer opened the scoring in the top half of the frame. FNG Dominic Smith got the big hit for the Giants, a two-out, two-strike, two-run double that put them on top for good. Robbie Ray's line in the 3-2 win: 7 IP, 4 H, 2 R, 1 W, 9 K.
I don't like to make too much of one at-bat but Dom Smith's hit is exactly the kind of hit the Giants got in April on a regular basis. Those hits evaporated in May. Sometimes bringing in new blood works like a charm. Last night FNG Daniel Johnson singled and stole a bag before scoring on Patrick Bailey's single in the 5th. It was the club's first run. He singled again in the 7th behind Willy Adames' walk. Both scored on Heliot Ramos' double to make it 5-3. Welcome to the squad, Dan Johnson! Seriously, those are the hits that have eluded the Giants for some time now. It's great to see the new guys contribute right away.
Sean Hjelle deserves a hat tip for a dandy 2-2/3 IP last night after Kyle Harrison faltered. Ryan Walker fumbled in the 9th but Randy Rodriguez heroically rescued him and preserved the win. That guy is amazing. He pitched a scoreless 8th today, too. Camilo Doval put two on in the 9th today but got it done, sealing the deal with a strikeout. He was popping 100+ mph with his cutter.
The Braves come to town for the weekend. Tomorrow night's game is at 7:15 PT. It's Hayden Birdsong's turn in the rotation.
Go Giants!
--M.C.
p.s. Just to note that bullpen stalwart Tyler Rogers has faced 103 batters this year and walked just three while yielding only 18 hits. This team has a great group of relievers.