Mike Krukow couldn't finish making his point.
Pitch by pitch he went through Justin Verlander’s repertoire, relaying how effective the veteran had been in his first start since May 18.
"I could see why he was chomping at the bit to get back," Krukow said. "He feels like he has more than enough..."
And at that moment, Daniel Schneemann launched a fastball right down the middle. As it started to carry out of the yard, Krukow finished his sentence:
"...pitches to win tonight"
Ah, "win tonight" is exactly what didn't happen. Three-run homers are killer for any team, but especially for the Giants. They're 1 for 19 with runners in scoring position this series, and drop to 8-14 against lefties this year.
Understandably, "win tonight" is all Verlander is asking for. Just once. It's been 264 days since he had a W next to his name.
Up next: It’s Logan Webb’s (6-5, 2.58 ERA) turn to be the stopper. He faces Gavin Williams (5-3, 3.89 ERA) as the Giants try to avoid the sweep. First pitch at 1:05 pm.