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Giants Remain Contenders in National League West By: Chris Motley Live from SBC Park? For some reason it just doesn’t have the same ring as Pac Bell Park did. For the Giants, who have lost to the World Series Champ in the postseason the last two years, this off season does not feel like those of the past. While San Francisco does have the most dominant player in the game today, a true ace in Jason Schmidt, and a solid bullpen, one must wonder if the Giants window of opportunity to go all the way is starting to close. Barry Bonds is one more year older, Nen’s health is still in question, and in an off season filled with big time names and even bigger contracts, the Giants took a step back. Despite trading a solid reliever in Joe Nathan for a fiery all-star in A.J. Pierzynski, the Giants did very little. Both Jose Cruz Jr. and Tim Worrell left town via free agency, as did last year’s deadline addition - Sidney Ponson. The Giants also lost two veteran players from their infield, Rich Aurilia and Benito Santiago. This leaves the Giants with some serious holes to fill defensively, and in the clubhouse. While Pierzynski’s bat should help Barry carry the load offensively, the Giants will need some of their youngsters to step up. Of course, the 162 game marathon allows for teams to develop and take care of their weaknesses thru the minor leagues as opposed to free agency. Both Jerome Williams and Kevin Correia will be looked upon to strengthen an already solid Giants rotation. If Reuter and Schmidt can stay healthy, then this rotation should be very dependable. The bullpen also remains a strength for Felipe Alou. Of course, this all depends on the health of Ron Nen. With the loss of last year’s closer, Tim Worrell, and Joe Nathan, the Giants will need Nen to have a good year. Felix Rodriguez will once again be used heavily, as will Matt Herges. Offensively, however, the Giants will need people to step up in order to get to the postseason. As of now, Cody Ransom looks to take over Aurilia’s spot, and the loss of Cruz hurts the outfield. The addition of Michael Tucker will help to fill this void. As for Barry, there is no reason to think that Bonds will drop off, in fact, he may even have a better season now without any off the field distractions. For a team that is looking for their first World Series Championship since moving out to San Francisco, this off season has not exactly riled up the fans. The Giants, however, have been a model franchise and always seem to be near the top of their division. This year should be no different. Los Angeles has not addressed their needs offensively, and Arizona lost Schilling in a trade that brought Richie Sexson to the desert. Randy Johnson is creeping closer to retirement, although youngsters like Brandon Webb are in place to take over the top spots in the rotation. Both San Diego and Colorado have strong lineups but major pitching issues. In other words, the N.L. West is once again there for the Giants taking, and they should be right at the top all season. At worst, you can still head out to SBC Park and watch Barry launch moon shots. |
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