Predicting the Giants starting rotation on Opening Day

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Jeff Samardzija. (Photo by Jason O. Watson/Getty Images) /

Giants No. 2 starter: RHP Jeff Samardzija

In all likelihood, Jeff Samardzija would have been the No. 3 starter if Bumgarner was still on the team, so naturally he is bumped up to the No. 2 spot following his departure.

The 2019 season was a solid one for the Shark. Statistically, he outperformed Bumgarner with a 3.52 ERA and 1.11 WHIP over the course of 181 innings.

Coming off an injury plagued and struggle filled 2018 season, it was refreshing to see that he was still able to go a full season and pitch well.

You could make the argument for him as ace in 2020, but I think Cueto would be more comfortable in that role given he has been there and done that.

If Samardzija stays healthy, there is no reason to believe he can’t post similar numbers to his 2018 performance, with a high inning total and an ERA of 4.00 or below.