Buster, Bullpen Beat LA

SF 7  LA 2

It was a back-to-back festival in LA tonight. The Giants went back-to-back in the top of the 1st, a two-run shot from Buster Posey followed by a blast from Wilmer Flores to make it 3-0 off Tony Gonsolin. Unfortunately the Dodgers had an answer, back-to-backs from Max Muncy and Justin Turner off Kevin Gausman to make it 3-2. It stayed that way until the 7th when Buster Posey got a rally going with a leadoff hit and later scored on a double by Thairo Estrada. The Giants racked up four to put the game out of reach and get a huge win to open the series. The bullpen was superb–Zack Littell (1-2/3), Jarlin Garcia (1-1/3), Dominic Leone (1), Jay Jackson (1), Jake McGee (1)–in relief of an off-form Gausman who only lasted three frames. Sure nice to have Buster back!

In a familiar refrain, the Giants left nine men on base and were 4-for-13 with RISP. They had 12 hits and four walks and could have scored more. I suppose you have to credit the Dodgers for pitching well in some key spots. The Giants finally broke through against Victor Gonzalez. It’s been a tough matchup so far: that’s only their fourth win in ten games against LA.

Brandon Crawford goes on the IL (oblique strain). It’s a huge blow, especially with all these big games coming up. They will be going with Estrada at short for now, I wonder if that means Mauricio Dubon will get brought back up?

Alex Wood tomorrow.

Go Giants!

–M.C.