Giants Assess Potential Changes in Batting Order Ahead of Season
As Spring Training progresses, the San Francisco Giants are exploring adjustments to their batting lineup, with manager Bob Melvin hinting at a possible shift regarding player roles. A notable discussion revolving around the batting order emerged when Melvin announced that outfielder Jung Hoo Lee may be moved from leadoff to the third spot in the lineup. This transition has led to LaMonte Wade Jr. taking on primary leadoff responsibilities.
Heliot Ramos Takes Leadoff for a Game
In a recent matchup against the Athletics, Heliot Ramos took the leadoff position, impressing Melvin with his performance. The manager pointed out that Ramos had significant success against left-handed pitchers during the previous season, particularly against them.
“It’s just trying to maximize his at-bats against lefties,” Melvin commented. “We’ll see where it goes, but right now I like it.”
Ramos’ Impressive 2024 Performance
Ramos made strides during the 2024 MLB season, generating an OPS of 1.189 against left-handers, ranking him second only to Aaron Judge. His slugging percentage of .750 was the highest in the league, landing him ahead of prominent hitters such as Jose Ramirez and Yordan Alvarez.
Although Ramos enjoyed hitting leadoff, he is focusing on overcoming a mild oblique strain sustained earlier in camp. He is also actively working on improving his performance against right-handed pitching, having recorded a .673 OPS in those matchups. To assist in this effort, he is collaborating with coaches Matt Williams and Pat Burrell to refine his approach. “I just have to switch the mindset and be more aggressive,” Ramos explained.
Justin Verlander’s Strong Spring Training
The Giants have also been keeping a close watch on veteran pitcher Justin Verlander this spring, who has exceeded expectations. In his latest outing, Verlander pitched five innings, allowing only one run while striking out four batters, showcasing impressive velocity with a fastball consistently in the 94-96 mph range.
Melvin praised Verlander’s performance, noting, “It’s really similar to the look he has had for a long time,” highlighting the effectiveness of his array of pitches this spring. Despite his slider not being at its peak, Verlander remains optimistic: “Everyone says don’t freak out about the slider here.”
Verlander is on schedule to start the second game of the upcoming regular season and is set to take the mound on April 4 for the home opener, further solidifying his value to the team.
Giants’ Spring Training Success
In a recent game under rainy conditions in Scottsdale, Max Stassi hit a crucial two-run homer late in the match, helping the Giants secure a 5-3 victory. With this win, the Giants now hold an impressive record of 12-3-3 in the Cactus League.
While Spring Training results don’t carry season weight, Melvin humorously remarked, “It’s better than losing,” in reference to the team’s current standing as the Cactus League leaders in both home runs and ERA. Additionally, the Giants remain undefeated at Scottsdale Stadium, which serves as a morale booster for fans and the organization in their quest to rebuild connections with their supporters.
Conclusion
As the Giants finalize their roster and batting order ahead of the regular season, all eyes will be on how players like Ramos adjust to new roles and the continuing performance of veterans like Verlander. The team’s emerging success in Spring Training only adds to the excitement surrounding the upcoming MLB season.
