Saturday, February 26, 2011

Spring Training: SF 8, LA 3

The Giants extended their Spring Training record to a sparkly (and meaningless) 2-0 after today's win against the Dodgers.

For what it's worth, Pablo Sandoval got a couple of hits, including a home run. I'm expecting big things out of him this year, and well, he hasn't disappointed in two whole Spring Training games thus far...

Most importantly: Mark DeRosa went three for three today. If he continues to swing the bat like this, he could earn a spot as the starting left-fielder. Bay City Ball touched on this, and would prefer the Pat Burrell - Nate Schierholtz platoon. I'd tend to agree. Burrell's obviously not an ideal defensive left-fielder, but his on-base abilities and power make him a valuable addition to the lineup, and the Schierholtz platoon would effectively minimize the damage Burrell does defensively. DeRosa's a league-average hitter (if we assume he retains his power after two wrist surgeries), and his defense out in left isn't great either. A large chunk of DeRosa's value is in his versatility, so I'd rather not see him penciled in as the starting left-fielder. But we'll see how this develops...

Lastly, Andres Torres went two for three. I'd like to continue to see him swing the bat well because I see his starting outfield job at risk. Bochy is looking to give Aaron Rowand another shot at starting centerfielder, and if he finds an excuse to give Rowand the job over Torres, he'll go for it. I'd hate to see that happen...so I'm hoping Torres can maintain decent offensive numbers this Spring.

Also worth noting, the Dodgers sent out an atrocious offensive squad against the Giants. I realize their team was split, as they played two games today, but even with the additions of Andre Ethier and Matt Kemp, they have an ugly lineup on their hands -- reminiscent of the 2009 San Francisco Giants (I won't go as far as 2008....yet).