SF Giants: LaMonte Wade Jr., Luke Jackson left game with back tightness
The SF Giants removed right-handed pitcher Luke Jackson and LaMonte Wade Jr. from Saturday afternoon's 7-6 victory over the Arizona Diamondbacks with back tightness, per manager Gabe Kapler. Jackson was on the mound in the sixth inning when he showed visible discomfort after a pitch. Giants senior director of athletic training Dave Groeschner and manager Gabe Kapler briefly spoke with him on the mound before he was lifted from the game. Wade was lifted from the game in the eighth inning.
SF Giants relief pitcher Luke Jackson pitches the ball against the San Diego Padres. (2023)
Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports
While no injury is good news, given Jackson's recent recovery from UCL surgery, it seems less likely to be a serious issue than an issue with his throwing arm. Jackson signed a two-year, $11.5 million deal with the Giants this offseason. Jackson has recorded a 2.16 ERA across nine appearances with the Giants this season, recording 10 strikeouts (three walks) across 8.1 innings pitched.
Jackson spent the past six years in Atlanta's organization, emerging as a high-leverage option in the back of the pen. In 2021, Jackson had the best season of his career, posting a 1.98 ERA in 71 appearances with 70 strikeouts and 29 walks in 63.2 innings pitched. However, he was forced to miss all of the 2022 season after undergoing surgery in April.
Jackson has been a consistent middle relief option, although he has been used as a closer and setup arm at times. Over his career, Jackson has posted a 4.24 ERA in 253 games with 284 strikeouts and 118 walks in 272 innings pitched.
The SF Giants bullpen has been a dominant force over the past month. However, veteran relievers John Brebbia and Scott Alexander have already landed on the injured list over the past two weeks. Hopefully, Luke Jackson is able to avoid that same outcome and is able to return to the field soon.
