Baseball fans rejoice, opening day is here.
The 2010 San Francisco Giants look to get off to a strong start tonight against the Houston Astros.
Coming off an 88 win season, the Giants look to become a playoff contender this year and let the baseball world know the Giants are here to stay for years to come.
Taking the hill tonight for the Giants will be two-time Cy Young winner Tim Lincecum. The “Freak” will anchor the up and coming pitching staff. Alongside him will be Matt Cain, Barry Zito, Jonathon Sanchez, and Todd Wellemeyer. Cain is coming off a 14 win season and looks to continue his development and success. Barry Zito looks to have a bounce back season, going 10-13 last season. Sanchez and Wellemeyer solidify the back end of the rotation. If they can combine to win 22 games the Giants are in good shape.
The Giants have a solid bullpen to back up the starting rotation with Jeremy Affeldt and Brian Wilson as the closer. Wilson had 38 saves last year, tying for third in the NL.
New additions to the ball club, include veterans Mark DeRosa and Aubrey Huff. Combined with young promise from players such as John Bowker and Buster Posey the Giants have a nice blend in the clubhouse. Bowker may start on opening day while Posey will undoubtedly make his big league debut later in the season. Also, look for Aaron Rowand to have a bounce back season after hitting .261 last year. He hit .429 this spring.
Overall, the San Francisco Giants have nothing but promise in 2010.
They face-off with three-time All Star Roy Oswalt at 4 p.m. Look for Lincecum to set the tone for the season on the mound. Let’s see if the offense looks improved from a season ago. Regardless, it will be exciting.
Predictions: Giants win 94 games and make the playoffs. Lincecum wins 18 but gets nudged out of the Cy Young by Phillies pitcher Roy Halladay.
Go Giants and enjoy opening day.
