Giants 4, Rockies 1: Ten wins in the last twelve games, and the third excellent start in a row for Barry Zito. Kevin Frandsen gets the key hit, a two-run double to drive in the team’s last two runs in a three-run 8th. Wilson and Hennessey pitch the 8th and 9th for the win and save, respectively.
So, does this modest run of success, thanks in large part to guys expected to contribute next year, bode well for the future? Is it a mirage, or do we take Zito at his word when he says he’s through with his adjustment period and is ready to rock and roll (without his guitar)?
A personnel move before the game: Vinnie Chulk hits the DL with a blood clot in his arm, never a trivial matter so we wish him well. Tyler Walker takes his place. Good to have him back. He was a bit miscast as a closer, but he gave it a go without complaint. If you’re at the game when he makes his return, give him a warm welcome.
PLODAG: Kevin Frandsen. He’s not busting out of his slump dramatically, but he’s 6–for-18 with three homers and two doubles since August 16.
Not busting out of his slump dramatically? Before this streak, he had only 1 HR for the season, in 169 previous ABs. With the two walks, that's a batting line of .333/.400/.944/1.344 with 3 HR in 18 AB. Apparently, according to a report I heard on the post-game talkshow last night, when he was interviewed after a game, he said that Barry Bonds gave him some hitting tips.
I've been hoping for Bonds to do that for years now, particularly after his 5 year contract, but it appears that he realizes that he's worn out his welcome and doing anything he can to come back for one more season and reach 3000 hits.
Ideally, he should be our hitting instructor once he retires and we have him on that 10 year personal service contract.