The San Francisco Giants won their first World Series title as a San Francisco franchise and first in over 50 years. The Giants relied heavily on their pitching staff, especially the starting pitching. Lincecum, Cain, and Sanchez bolstered the rotation throughout the season and Madison Bumgarner came on strong late, especially in the playoffs. Can pitching alone get it done again for the Giants next season? Let’s find out.
I have no doubt that the Giants starting rotation will have equal success in the 2011 season. Their big 3 will only get better with age, Bumgarner will grow and develop as the season wears on next year and the $126 million man, Barry Zito will have to step up as well. Zito pitched well at times this past season, but nothing like the CY Young winner from the 2002 Athletics. Zito was left off of the postseason roster for all three rounds, so hopefully that struck a cord with him and he will work on re-inventing himself this off-season as he does not throw as hard as he used too.
There are no issues with the bullpen either as they posted one of the leagues lowest ERA’s last season. It would not hurt to put another experienced arm out there like Brian Fuentes or maybe a Kyle Farnsworth. The bullpen is anchored by closer Brian Wilson who had his best season in the majors this year. As long as everyone stays healthy, the bullpen should perform just as well next season.
The hitting lineup is what needs a jolt of energy. The Giants lacked power last season as Aubrey Huff lead the team in RBI’s with 85. Buster Posey is capable of racking in 100 RBI’s as he demonstrated he is a legitimate threat in the middle of the lineup this past season. Pablo Sandoval struggled at the plate this season compared to his 2009 season, but I fully expect him to bounce back next season and anchor the third base position. The Giants need to make a splash in free agency for a power bat to complement Buster Posey. Maybe a Paul Konerko or a Carlos Pena at first base? I strongly believe that they need to get a big bat for their lineup no matter what position they play in the field.
If the Giants are able to sign that big bat in the off-season, look for the Giants to strongly defend their World Series title.
No comments:
Post a Comment