Sunday, August 03, 2003

 

Haven't seen much of the Giants games this weekend, since I've been really busy with social commitments. So I was really surprised to hear that Dustin Hermanson had appeared out of thin air to start tonight's game. After a little confusion, I figured out that that one guy (Devil? Dorian?) was gone, and Sir Sidney wasn't going to start until Wednesday. Thus the need for an instant starter (just add a quick phone call to Fresno). Of course, following this year's tradition, Hermanson pitched a fine game, and got a victory.

The Giants finish the road trip 2-4, which is a bit disappointing considering the 11-1 homestand. On the other hand, the Diamondbacks continue to dissolve into a puddle of goo. I'm sure the Giants will get the upcoming homestand off to a roaring start Tuesday night when Schmidt takes the mound versus his old team, the Pirates. Then it's Sir Sidney Wednesday night, a game for which I have tickets. Perhaps the rotation will get a bit of stability from here on out. Reuter's shoulder problem is a big concern, though. If he can get healthy before the playoff, and if nothing else bad happens to the staff, Giants fans have a lot to be excited about.

On the other hand, Giants fans always have something to bitch about. I'm no exception. Today I have a bone to pick with one Felix Rodriguez. Over the last week, his ERA has been 27. He's probably lost two games, all by himself. The last two years, he's been a shadow of his former self. Last year, he claimed an injured finger as an excuse. This year, it was a virus or something. Whatever it is, his K/BB rate is plummeting, his homer rate is higher than ever. He can no longer be considered a reliable setup man, in my opinion. I'd seriously consider letting Joe Nathan handle that role from here on out.

GIANTS MAGIC NUMBER: 40.

Jefferson 8:33 PM

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