The SF Giants could be heading toward a closer controversy

SF Giants closer Ryan Walker had another rough outing on Tuesday, allowing two earned runs while only recording two outs. On the other hand, Camilo Doval has tallied 13 straight scoreless outings. Are the Giants heading toward a closer controversy?

The SF Giants could be heading toward a closer controversy

Walker's struggles began in a game against the Los Angeles Angels in April. He allowed the Angels to stage a comeback and walk it off, allowing four earned runs while only recording one out. It was one of his first rough outings in a while. It is easy to chalk that up as a one-off and move on.

In his very next outing, the Giants' closer nearly allowed the Milwaukee Brewers to stage a comeback. Two runs crossed home plate before Bob Melvin replaced Walker with Doval. Fortunately, Doval was able to close it out and secure the win.

The struggles continued on Tuesday night against the Chicago Cubs. Walker allowed one run to score in the bottom of the ninth inning. With two runners and Kyle Tucker coming to the plate, Melvin replaced Walker with Erik Miller.

That was not a bad process decision by Melvin. Miller has been effective against left-handed hitters, and Tucker is one of the best in the game. The left-handed bat won that round, lining a two-out single to tie it up. Walker did not get credit for the blown save, but in essence, that is what it was. The Giants put together a nine-run rally in the 11th inning to secure the victory.

Managers often employ a three-strike rule with closers. If you blow three games in a short period of time, it is time to look for a replacement, even on a temporary basis. Walker has only blown one save, but he has had three pretty rough outings over the past couple of weeks.

The 29-year-old reliever is not quite at three strikes yet, but he has to be getting close. Walker's control has not been quite as sharp, and he has been more hittable than before. The good news is that he is still recording a healthy number of strikeouts, and his underlying numbers, such as a 2.41 FIP, do point to some positive regression.

Melvin is not ready to make a move just yet. A day after allowing the Cubs to come back, Walker was back in the closer's role and had no problem this time around. For what it is worth, Melvin's patience might be a strength this season. Players are not on edge of losing their role after a rough day or two. This is a balancing act because you do not want Melvin to be too patient. You do not want him to be too reactive either.

On the other hand, Camilo Doval registered yet another scoreless outing while lowering his ERA to 1.53. His control problems from 2024 have improved. Oddly enough, his strikeout rate remains low. While the Melvin continues to use Walker in the closer role, the Giants could be nearing a closer controversy if his struggles continue.