Reds vs. Giants: Pitching preview, prediction, and more

Giants starting rotation among the league’s best.

It’s no secret as to why the San Francisco Giants are occupying the top spot in the NL West. Their starting rotation, which happens to feature three former Reds, has been dominating to open the 2021 campaign.

Entering Sunday, the San Francisco starting rotation ERA of 2.79 trailed on the New York Mets starting staff among NL clubs. How good has the Giants’ rotation been? Logan Webb, who will get the start tonight, is the only member of the Giants rotation with an ERA north of 3.62.

If the Giants are vulnerable, it’s in their bullpen—the relief corps ERA of 4.38 ranks 11th in the senior circuit, and their 12 blown saves are tied for the most among National League bullpens. Despite the 10 saves closer Jake McGee shouldn’t strike fear in anyone. In 19 appearances, the southpaw has allowed 18 hits and four round-trippers in 17.2 innings of work.

The Giants have needed the strong starting pitching because their offense is hardly an intimidating group. Their .224 batting average is the second-worst in the NL, and their 224 base hits are third from the basement.

All the names at the top of the San Francisco offensive leaderboard are familiar ones. First baseman Brandon Belt, shortstop Brandon Crawford, and catcher Buster Posey have combined for 25 homers on the season.

Few hitters enjoy playing against the Reds as much as Brandon Belt. The left-handed slugger’s career batting average of .301 and .618 slugging marks are his highest versus any opponent he’s faced at least 50 times.