SCOTTSDALE -- Tony Vitello found himself managing a game at Scottsdale Stadium on Friday afternoon, missing Logan Webb’s impressive performance in the World Baseball Classic quarterfinal against Canada. Webb delivered 4 2/3 shutout innings, and while Vitello couldn’t watch, he was pleased with the numbers, especially the pitch count.
Webb threw 71 pitches, aligning perfectly with the Giants' plan. He’ll remain with Team USA for the semifinal against the Dominican Republic and will be in the dugout for the final if they advance. Importantly, Webb is healthy and on track for Opening Day after his two WBC appearances.
The WBC did shuffle Webb’s schedule a bit, so he’ll enjoy a couple of extra rest days this week. He’s set to pitch again on Friday at Scottsdale Stadium for one last tune-up before taking on the New York Yankees on March 25 in the MLB season opener.
This Opening Day start will mark Webb’s fifth consecutive, a feat matched only by Juan Marichal since the team’s move west. Giants legends like Tim Lincecum and Madison Bumgarner had similar streaks, with Bumgarner starting five of six, missing one due to a late injury.
Vitello had been cautious about officially naming Webb as the Opening Day starter, wanting to keep spring training competitive. But with the Giants’ return to the Bay Area just a week away, the decision seems all but confirmed.
"We haven’t put anything in writing, but I don’t see any reason to change," Vitello said about Opening Day. "Webb’s on track to get his next outing with us on Friday. He hit the pitch count target yesterday and did so at a high level of competition."
As the Giants gear up for the season, they expect Jung Hoo Lee back in Scottsdale this weekend following South Korea’s elimination. He could join the lineup on Monday, with Harrison Bader, Luis Arráez, and José Buttó also set to be in action soon.