SAN FRANCISCO GIANTS (50-48, 4TH PLACE, NL WEST)
BIG PICTURE
The Giants have played much better than last season (not hard — they lost 98 games) but still don’t look like a strong contender because they have given up more runs than they have scored. The lineup got good results from shortstop Brandon Crawford and first baseman Brandon Belt. Rookie pitchers Dereck Rodriguez and Andrew Suarez blunted the long injury hiatuses of ace Madison Bumgarner and- Johnny Cueto.
BEST PERFORMANCE
Crawford, rebounding from a trying 2017, got off to a slow start but went on one of the best stretches of his career (he hit .412 in May and .326 in June). He is the National League’s starting shortstop in the All-Star Game and is on pace for his best offensive season while continuing his usual stellar defensive play.
BIGGEST SURPRISE
Outfielder Gorkys Hernandez has 11 home runs in 260 at-bats a season after he hit zero in 310 at-bats. He began the year with five career home runs. His .778 OPS (on-base plus slugging percentage) is more than 100 points above his career mark.
BIGGEST DISAPPOINTMENT
Closer Hunter Strickland broke his pitching hand when he punched a door after his fourth blown save in 17 opportunities. He isn’t due back before August.
TRADE-DEADLINE FORECAST
Brian Sabean will target relievers.
KEY SERIES
vs. Los Angeles Dodgers Sept. 28-30
Tom Krasovic