As the San Francisco Giants continue to roll through interleague play, they’ll send out Barry Zito Saturday against the Detroit Tigers on short rest, something Zito has no problem with.
“I don’t really make a big deal out of it as far as physically,” Zito said. “You’re either good to go or you’re not. … My body certainly can handle whatever the demands are. I think it should be no problem to go out there and throw 100-plus pitches.”
Zito’s recent return from the DL has given the lefty a new pep in his step as he got the win for his seven innings against the Cubs earlier this week as part of a double-header, and looks much more in control of himself on the mound. Zito owns a 7-6 record with a 3.09 ERA in 15 career starts against Detroit. His last start came in June of 2008, a start where he lasted only two innings.
Zito will face the Tigers Max Scherzer, another very bright spot in the Tigers rotation alongside Justin Verlander. The former Arizona Diamondback is 1-2 with a 2.60 ERA in three career starts against the Giants, and is shooting for his 10th win of the season this evening.
Pablo Sandoval will be looking to extend his 13 game hitting streak for the Giants as well, carrying the offense last night with two huge RBI doubles. The Panda is also amongst the favorite Giants for an All-Star bid despite missing a big chunk of the year with a broken hamate bone in his hand.
First pitch is set for 4:05 p.m. PT with coverage on CSN Bay Area and KNBR 680 AM.
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