Monday, May 14, 2018

Giants outlast Reds

SF 10 CIN7
The first six guys in the Giants lineup all had at least one hit and scored at least one run and the eighth guy, Kelby Tomlinson, drove in two runs with a hit in the 3rd. That's what I call a team effort. Brandon Belt led the way with three hits including a double and a homer and three RBI. And they needed it as starter Chris Stratton was a little shaky, giving up nine hits and four runs in his five innings against a hot Reds team that had won six straight. Home cookin', I suppose, is always best and the Giants looked rejuvenated tonight after their painful 4-6 trip. Speaking of Kelby, the injuries to Joe Panik and Alan Hanson have forced the team into using the utility man as the starter at the keystone, and he was in the middle of all three double plays the Giants turned. Let's hope he can hold down that spot with solid play on both sides of the ball. Rookie Austin Slater, just called up, had a hit and a walk and two stolen bases. By the way those six consecutive wins the Reds had before tonight included a four-game sweep of the Dodgers in LA. Pierce Johnson (1), Cory Gearrin (2), and Jose Valdez (1) finished up. The youngster allowed a three-run homer with two outs in the 9th, but ten runs was still enough for the win.

One-fourth of the way through the season (42 games) and the team is at .500 with a 21-21 record. It's not exactly pretty, but with all the injuries and roster moves I have to feel encouraged. A little stability in the rotation coupled with some consistency on offense and this could be a really good club. Not asking a lot, am I?

Ty Blach tomorrow night. Go Giants!

--M.C.

2 comments:

Barbara said...

All things considered, it is amazing they are doing as well as they are. What I find most encouraging is the way everybody gets in the act with hits and runs. What I find most discouraging is the sloppy defensive play. Still lots of hope for the season.

nomisnala said...

Figures that Duvall who is hitting below Mendoza, would look like a right handed Babe Ruth against the giants. Just amazing how the giants cannot figure out how to get guys out, who could not hit when they were with the giants.