The San Francisco Giants fell to the San Diego Padres 3-2 on Tuesday night. Starting pitcher Barry Zito got into trouble early and often, despite allowing only three runs. Zito had seven walks, a season high.
The Giants fall to 18-13, now 1.5 games behind the Padres.
Both teams had their chances, combining to leave 45 runners on base. The Giants left a whopping 18.
This comes one game after Tim Lincecum’s third start in a row where he left with the lead and he earned the no decision. The Giants back up needs to help the two time Cy Young Award winner out. Last season Lincecum got the ND seven times because he received two runs or less. This is not a way to make your franchise player happy. Lincecum will be sure to shrug off the upsetting outcomes of his last three starts by throwing the nasty his next start.
The Giants will send Matt Cain to the mound versus Clayton Richard at 7:15 p.m. Richard came to the Padres last year in the Jake Peavy deal, this kid has some good young talent. Cain needs a statement game for the Giants, who are struggling against the San Diego Padres this early season.
Look for the Giants to come out swinging tonight, the team really needs to show San Diego who’s boss.
On a side note, Mark DeRosa has torn ligaments in his wrist, which was operated on in the off season. He looks to miss significant time. Let’s hope he is back by August. Look for DeRosa come back with fire, wanting to prove to Giants fans that he can make a difference for the ball club.
On a better note, Freddy Sanchez made a minor league start, and knocking in a couple of runs. When he returns he will bring a solid bat and even better defense.
In any event, Go Giants.
