After back-to-back heartbreakers at the hands of the Chicago Cubs the San Francisco Giants were in need of some offensive output at Comerica Park against the Detroit Tigers. And behind another brilliant performance from Madison Bumgarner and some well timed hitting by Pablo Sandoval the Giants came out on top by a score of 4-3.
Pablo got the G-Men off on the right foot with an RBI double in the fifth, then an RBI ground rule double in the ninth. The Giants added two more much needed runs in the ninth with a bases loaded walk of Nate Schierholtz and Brandon Crawford as Detroit staged a late rally against the Giants bullpen.
Brian Wilson, who eventually got the win, gave up two more runs in the ninth as Brandon Inge hit an RBI single then a throwing error by Manny Burriss scored Ryan Raburn. Jeremy Affeldt was brought in to clean up and get the save, his third of the year.
Bumgarner pitched seven and 1/3 innings of one-run ball, allowing only an RBI single to Maglio Ordonez . Bummy gave up only five total hits and one walk while fanning nine Tigers. Unfortunately he took a no decision for the game as the Tigers staged their late rally.
Former Giant Brad Penny also pitched very well, lasting for seven innings while allowing only run, with two walks and two strikeouts. Closer Jose Valverde took his second loss of the year for his work in the ninth, allowing three earned runs.
As a team the Giants struggled once again, leaving 13 men on base. But with Pablo's hit streak extending to 13 games now, he may have to carry the brunt of the load until the rest of the squad can figure it out at the plate. Aaron Rowand had another nice showing, going 3-5 with a double. And as long as Torres continues to struggle as much has he has, Rowand should be the starting center fielder until he can get it all situated again.
Pat Burrell was set to start in the left field, but was a late scratch with some right foot soreness. It shouldn't be too big a problem for Burrell or the team, but it was enough to keep him from making his start.
With the win the Giants move to 47-36 on the year. Full box score can be found here.
San Francisco will send out Barry Zito (1-1 4.95 ERA) for his second start since returning from the DL to face Max Scherzer (9-3 4.47 ERA) for the Tigers. First pitch is set for 4:05 with coverage on CSN Bay Area and KNBR 680 AM.
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