Beltran, Lincecum Expected To Play In Finale
The big news of the day is the expected debut of Carlos Beltran in the San Francisco Giants (60-44) lineup tonight in Philadelphia. He most likely will bat third and take over duties in right field. The Giants acquired Beltran yesterday in a deal that sent top pitching prospect Zach Wheeler to the New York Mets. The Giants offense has been anemic this year and the addition of Beltran (.289, 15 HR, 66 RBI) will certainly help but how much of a difference he makes is yet to be seen. With last night’s 2-1 victory, the Giants are now 28-13 in one-run games this year.
The Phillies (65-38) will be attempting to win their tenth straight series in tonight’s rubber game. If they’re going to be successful, they will have to do it behind Kyke Kendrick (5-4, 3.45), who will be opposed byTim Lincecum (8-8, 2.90). Kendrick has pitched respectably as of late. The righthander is 1-0 in his last three starts with a 2.55 ERA. The Phillies have won two of those three starts. Carlos Beltran could have an immediate impact. He has gone 6-for-19 in his career against Kendrick.
The Giants are expected to release Pat Burrell, who is currently on the disabled list with a right foot strain, and send Brandon Belt down to Triple-A to make room on their roster for Beltran.
Some sources have indicated that the Phillies might be interested in Burrell. He is batting .233 with 7 HR and 21 RBI this season. I don’t really see the benefit in adding Burrell to the Phillies roster at this point.
Even though Domonic Brown drove in the only Phillies run last night and he has a modest six-game hitting sreak going, his play in right field continues to mystify me. I’d describe his fielding prowess as “raw” at best. Too many plays turn into adventures out there. Honestly, I doubt that scouts are placing much value on him.
In the Dirt 