Despite a late inning push by the San Francisco Giants they came up just short as they lost a close one to the Chicago Cubs 3-2. Today was probably the least productive day thus far for the Giants’ offense with only 6 hits and 2 runs, but there were some definite positives to take away.
Tim Lincecum had a strong outing for the Giants going three full innings allowing no hits or walks while striking out two Diamondbacks. Today was also the first game the Giants haven’t had a DH, so Timmy got himself an AB this afternoon, producing a strikeout. Madison Bumgarner had a decent day for the Giants pitching two plus innings allowing six hits and 3 earned runs but had four strikeouts as well. Good sign that MadBum is getting some K’s under his belt before the regular season.
Freddy Sanchez had a couple of nice at bats, getting some solid contact off of Ryan Demptster in the 1st inning, but ended the day 0-3. Good to see Freddy’s shoulder isn’t inhibiting his swing and that he will be raring to go come opening day. Thomas Neal had his first hit of Spring Training, an RBI single in the 8th inning.
Pablo Sandoval continued his terrific Spring Training start going 2-3 with two doubles and an RBI. His double in the 4th inning was a deep shot to center that with a little more breeze would probably have been a homer. I think it’s safe to say folks, Panda Watch is in full effect. Keep your eye on him.
Former Giant Todd Wellemeyer pitched a couple of innings against the G-Men this afternoon allowing only one hit with two strikeouts. Unfortunately for the Cubs Spring Training is the only time Wellemeyer has scoreless outings, no matter how short they are.
The Giants will face the Arizona Diamondbacks for the third time in five days tomorrow for their first night game of Spring Training at 6:05 PT (7:05 MT). The Giants will have Jonathan Sanchez starting with Zach Duke getting the nod for the D’Backs.