Jimmie Sherfy. Rick Scuteri-USA TODAY Sports
MESA, Ariz. — The Giants’ bullpen competition is narrowing.
A couple non-roster invites were reassigned before the game Friday, as righties Jimmie Sherfy and Yunior Marte were sent to minor league camp (which does not yet exist).
The Giants’ major league camp is down to 34 six days out from Opening Day, when the Giants will bring 26 (plus a taxi squad) to Seattle. The best competition in camp is in the bullpen, and Farhan Zaidi has spoken highly of the non-roster righties who’ve performed in the Cactus League.
Sherfy is one of those NRIs, having struck out 15 in 7 2/3 innings, but he’s also allowed five runs and (more concerningly) six walks. The Giants loathe bases on balls, and Sherfy likely will be at the alternate site and honing his command.
The Giants’ bullpen certainties are Jake McGee, Matt Wisler, Jose Alvarez and Jarlin Garcia. Tyler Rogers is expected to make it. Reyes Moronta has made a strong bid. The option-able Wandy Peralta is still around.
Nick Tropeano, who’s not on the roster, is expected to make it and starting Friday against the Cubs at Sloan Park. He’s a long man, though, as is Shun Yamaguchi (who has an opt-out). For the more traditional relievers, maybe the most impressive non-roster showing has been from Dominic Leone, while Zack Littell has impressed as well.
The Giants would need to clear roster space for any to make the team.