Series preview: SF Giants @ Dbacks, probable pitchers, players to watch
The SF Giants will have a chance to make some significant gains in the National League West standings this week with a four-game set against the Arizona Diamondbacks. The Dbacks got off to a hot start to the season, taking an early division lead, however, they are now 2.5 games behind the Dodgers with a 20-17 record. The Giants head into the series fourth in the division at 16-20.
Arizona Diamondbacks player to watch: Corbin Carroll
The 16th overall pick in the 2019 MLB Draft, Corbin Carroll is an electric outfielder who is living up to his true five-tool potential. After making his big-league debut as a 21-year-old last season, Carroll is hitting .294/.364/.513 with 9 doubles, 5 home runs, and 10 stolen bases in his first 35 games this season. There are few young players in MLB more exciting to watch than Carroll. The Giants will be in good shape if they can slow Carroll down, but if not, their fans will get to see an exciting young talent.
SF Giants player to watch: Mitch Haniger
The SF Giants signed Mitch Haniger to be a consistent middle-of-the-order contributor against lefties and righties. While he's been fine since coming off the injured list at the end of April, Haniger's middling .227/.255/.409 line is being propped up by two home runs in the altitude of Mexico City. With Austin Slater hitting the injured list, the Giants need Haniger to wake up even more.
Series prediction: Split
The Giants have only announced Thursday night's starter (Alex Cobb), but the rotation's three best starters should all take the mound. Frankly, the pitching matchups suggest the Giants should take three out of four, but given their underwhelming start to the season, I'm no longer aggressive.
Series details:
Who: SF Giants @ Arizona Diamondbacks
Where: Chase Field, Phoenix, AZ
When: Thursday 5/11-Sunday 5/14
Projected starters: Alex Cobb vs. Cole Henry*, TBD (best guess Alex Wood) vs. Ryne Nelson, TBD (best guess Anthony DeSclafani) vs. Zac Gallen, TBD (best guess Logan Webb) vs. Brandon Pfaadt
* signifies LHP
How to watch:
- SF Giants broadcast: NBC Sports Bay Area, KNBR 680/1510 AM
- Diamondbacks broadcast: Bally Sports Arizona, 98.7 FM Arizona's Sports Station, KHOV Univision 105.1
