Another close game resulted in a Giants victory, they came out on top, 2-1 over the Dodgers in the opening series finale. It was a strange game, both managers elected to start relievers after finding out rain would show up early, and would likely delay the action. Mother Nature did not disappoint, the rain began falling in the third inning, but did not stop play until the fifth, the delay lasted over an hour.
Merkin Valdez started the game, and pitched two perfect innings, striking out four batters. Jack Taschner pitched a scoreless third inning, and then Tim Lincecum took over. Lincecum allowed a run in his first inning of work, but then settled down after the rain delay. It was surprising that manager, Bruce Bochy allowed him to go back to the mound after such a long delay. Lincecum was credited with the win, and closer Brian Wilson got a perfect four out save.
The Giants offense provided just enough to win the game, but will have to start producing more runs, because they cannot depend on their starters to be lights out everyday. Both of the runs the Giants scored were driven in on sacrifice flies by Randy Winn and Aaron Rowand. Eugenio Velez got his first start of the season, he played for Ray Durham at second base, got a single and stole a base. Rajai Davis was also written into the starting lineup, and played left-field in place of Dave Roberts; he singled and stole a base too.
With the day off today, the Giants will travel to Milwaukee for a weekend series starting tomorrow. Jonathan Sanchez will start Friday’s afternoon game against Brewers pitcher, Oscar Villanueva at 11:05 a.m.
