One San Francisco Giants Position Player and Pitcher Who Need to Improve

Through 48 games, the injured San Francisco Giants sit at an even 24-24. When accounting for injuries to their top two starters, starting second baseman and high-priced closer – the record looks even better.

Giants fans should be optimistic. Madison Bumgarner, Johnny Cueto, Joe Panik and Mark Melancon returning to their roles could provide a boon much like a series of mid-season acquisitions.

Even Hunter Pence is reportedly experimenting with a new swing, but I would expect a wait-and-see approach for how successful and effective he can be.

Around them, other Giants are picking up the slack to keep the proverbial boat afloat.

For starters, the Brandons are playing at an All Star level. Belt has a stunning 1.006 OPS (on-base percentage + slugging percentage) with 11 homers. Crawford is in the midst of his own hot streak, as he is complimenting his usual stellar defense with an average above .300 after a dismal offensive start to the season.

Meanwhile, Evan Longoria and Nick Hundley have shown off their power with 8 and 5 home runs, respectively. Even Pablo Sandoval is contributing off the bench!

While the rotation is struggling, the bullpen has produced well enough to hold down the fort for the hurlers.

Current closer Hunter Strickland has done a stellar job filling in for Melancon with 9 saves, a 2.18 ERA and 0.92 WHIP.

Signing lefty Tony Watson looks to be a shrewd move from the front office despite a rocky May, as he has held down the setup role with a 2.14 ERA and 1.19 WHIP. Additionally, Sam Dyson and Reyes Moronta have done good work in the middle innings.

The Giants are going to need all the help they can get as they enter a rough road trip, with visits to the Houston Astros, Chicago Cubs and Colorado Rockies coming up.

So without further adieu, let’s examine one position player and one pitcher who the team could use improvement from at this juncture.