Monday night was the culmination of a dream years in the making for the Giants front office.
Kyle Harrison struck out 11 in his home debut. (Even Tim Lincecum needed six starts in San Francisco to do that.)
Wade Meckler and Patrick Bailey each drove in runs.
Luis Matos threw out a runner at the plate.
Ryan Walker escaped a jam to keep Harrison’s line spotless.
Camilo Doval worked through the Reds in six pitches to record his 35th save.
Everything coalesced around the Giants’ young talent. And if they’re going to steal a wild card spot over the next five weeks, it’ll be because Monday’s story became September’s story.
The Giants will go as far as the kids take them. They’re in the driver’s seat. Buckle up.
Up next: Alex Cobb (6-5, 3.74 ERA) faces Brandon Williamson (4-3, 4.18 ERA) and the Reds at 6:45 p.m.