SAN FRANCISCO – Following Tuesday’s final spring training game San Francisco Giants manager Bruce Bochy announced the team’s starting rotation as well as other moves to the team’s final 25-man roster.
The starting rotation didn’t have any major surprises and will feature Madison Bumgarner, Derek Holland, Dereck Rodriguez, Jeff Samardzija, and Drew Pomeranz in that order.
No surprises in the infield either with Brandon Belt, Joe Panik, Brandon Crawford and Evan Longoria all starting while Pablo Sandoval, Connor Joe, and backup catcher Erik Kratz coming off the bench.
There was some uncertainty as to whether or not Sandoval would make the opening day roster, but Bochy confirmed that the veteran utility man will be with the club in San Diego.
The outfield will consist of Michael Reed, Steven Duggar, Gerardo Parra, and Yangervis Solarte.
Bochy did announce that the team will indeed carry 13 pitchers on their roster, although he has not made a decision yet on who will start as the team’s opening day closer. Will Smith, Reyes Moronta, Mark Melancon, Tony Watson, and Sam Dyson could all end up filling the role.
Nick Vincent, Trevor Gott, Travis Bergen will all start the year in the bullpen but aren’t expected to close out games.
Bochy also announced that Alen Hanson will not make the opening day roster. The Giants also cut Tom Murphy Tuesday night. Murphy was a potential backup catcher claimed from the Rockies earlier this week.
Mac Williamson was hit in the hand by a pitch during Tuesday night’s contest. The X-Ray was negative for a fracture, but the team will wait a day to re-evaluate his injury.
One spot on the final 25-man roster is up for grabs. Williamson is a candidate for the spot if Bochy elects to bring on a fifth outfielder. Both Mike Gerber and Henry Ramos both made appearances in the outfield during the final exhibition series against Oakland and could also make the roster.
