5 surprising San Francisco Giants players that are willing the team back to life

May 9, 2015; San Francisco, CA, USA; San Francisco Giants left fielder Nori Aoki (23) at the plate during the first inning against the Miami Marlins at AT&T Park. Mandatory Credit: Bob Stanton-USA TODAY Sports

Nori Aoki

In his first year as a Giant, Nori Aoki has been praised for his amiable personality and energetic clubhouse presence. He’s certainly been energized on the base paths, with nine steals to his credit. The Giants have collected many accolades during their World Series triumphs, but they’ve never been considered much of a speed threat. This group could undoubtedly use more quick and aggressive base runners.

Moving forward, the team needs Aoki to raise his on-base percentage (.359), which is pedestrian for a leadoff guy. He’s currently ranked fourth in that category behind Buster Posey, Brandon Crawford and Brandon Belt. If Aoki can continue to utilize his intuitive base running ability, there’s no reason he shouldn’t lead the club in runs scored by the All-Star break (he currently trails Posey and Crawford).