When was the last time a guy made his major-league debut as a pinch-runner and more or less stole the game? Darren Ford, who has stolen other less wholesome things in the recent past, shocked the Rockies in the 8th by taking second on what was, frankly, a crap-ass sacrifice bunt by Tim Lincecum, then breaking for third on a ball in the dirt that bounced just beyond the batter's box, which prompted Colorado catcher Miguel Olivo to throw the ball into left field. Ford scored easily. Giants win. It might not be Dave Roberts stealing second in game four of the 2004 ALCS, but it was our little local nirvana of baserunning splendor that for years will have people in Giants' hats passing each other on the street, making eye contact, and saying "Darren Ford" to each other with a knowing nod of the head.
Giants win. Giants win. Padres lose. Giants win.
Tim Lincecum outpitched Ubaldo Jimenez, too. Just barely. Two of Ubaldo's three walks came back to haunt. He walked Posey in the 5th to move Guillen into scoring position, and Fontenot squeezed a grounder up the middle for the Giants' first run. He walked Fontenot to lead off the 8th, which is when Ford entered as a pinch-runner (but not until the count to the next batter was 1-1; what took you so long, Boch?).
Remember what I wrote last night about great at-bats? Chalk up two for Mike Fontenot. His single came on a 3-1 pitch, and his walk in the 8th was the turning point in the game. Because, then, well. Psst. Pal. You. Darren Ford. You know what I mean?
Giants win. Giants win. Padres lose. Giants win.
Tim Lincecum outpitched Ubaldo Jimenez, too. Just barely. Two of Ubaldo's three walks came back to haunt. He walked Posey in the 5th to move Guillen into scoring position, and Fontenot squeezed a grounder up the middle for the Giants' first run. He walked Fontenot to lead off the 8th, which is when Ford entered as a pinch-runner (but not until the count to the next batter was 1-1; what took you so long, Boch?).
Remember what I wrote last night about great at-bats? Chalk up two for Mike Fontenot. His single came on a 3-1 pitch, and his walk in the 8th was the turning point in the game. Because, then, well. Psst. Pal. You. Darren Ford. You know what I mean?
