Key SF Giants starting pitcher returns to the injured list with familiar ailment

The 2022 season has not gone as expected for veteran starter Anthony DeSclafani, especially after signing a three-year, $36 million pact in the offseason. DeSclafani has made just two starts since returning from the injured list with ankle inflammation, but it appears that the injury is more serious than originally anticipated.

Key SF Giants starting pitcher returns to the injured list with familiar ailment

Corner infielder Jason Vosler will take DeSclafani's place on the active roster after being recalled prior to Friday's game against the Chicago White Sox.

Giants manager Gabe Kapler struck a more serious chord when discussing DeSclafani's injury, indicating that multiple treatment options are on the table according to Alex Pavlovic of NBC Sports Bay Area. Regardless of what option the training staff chooses, this feels like it will be another extended absence for the 32-year-old hurler.

The Giants hoped that DeSclafani would be the same type of workhouse that he was last season when he tallied a 3.17 ERA in 31 starts. The veteran righty was slated to start Sunday's game, but the Giants will likely opt for bullpen games until the All-Star break in DeSclafani's absence.

This could provide an opportunity for Sam Long, who has really had a nice season in a difficult role. The 26-year-old lefty has posted a 2.00 ERA with 15 strikeouts against seven walks in 16 appearances for San Francisco in 2022.

The strikeout numbers are oddly low, so that will be something to monitor. However, he has assumed the tough role of a bulk innings reliever, meaning that his appearances are often sporadic. Despite this, Long has performed well this season.

While Long is already on the 26-man roster, Jason Vosler was recalled to take DeSclafani's spot on the active roster. The left-handed bat is fresh off of a game in which he blasted two home runs with the Sacramento River Cats on Thursday.

Vosler has had a nice season with the Giants, slashing .294/.362/.569 (157 OPS+) with four home runs, eight RBI, and nine runs in 58 plate appearances. He has really looked more comfortable at the plate in 2022.

However, he has struggled on defense in his brief showing with the Giants. His bat has the upside to become a role player, but his glove will be what allows the Giants to continue putting his name in the lineup. For now, he will get another shot to show the coaching staff what he can do.