As the new MLB season kicks off, the San Francisco Giants are already keeping fans on their toes with unexpected bullpen strategies. Heading into the season, many anticipated Ryan Walker would be the go-to closer. However, Manager Tony Vitello threw a curveball by deploying Walker in the sixth inning during Thursday night’s game.
The Giants were ahead 6-2 when Vitello called on Walker to relieve Robbie Ray, who had delivered a solid 5 and 1/3 innings. Walker efficiently secured the final two outs, but this early appearance raises questions about who will handle closing duties moving forward.
Walker did step up to close the Giants' first save opportunity against the San Diego Padres earlier this week. Despite a nail-biting moment when he surrendered a two-run homer, the Giants managed to secure a 3-2 win.
Last season, Walker initially held the closer role but eventually lost it to Camilo Doval. After Doval's trade to the Yankees and Randy Rodríguez’s unfortunate Tommy John surgery, Walker was back in the closer spotlight by necessity. However, his late-game struggles were evident, and the Giants chose not to bring in a seasoned closer during the offseason.
Walker was vocal about his desire to reclaim the closer role and impressed during spring training. While he wasn’t officially named the closer, his experience suggested he might lead the bullpen early in the year.
Now, Vitello appears to be exploring a closer-by-committee approach. Options include lefty Erik Miller, who has the potential to shine in high-pressure situations, and Keaton Winn, who’s already made a name for himself as a setup man. Caleb Kilian has also shown promise with his dominant pitching.
Additionally, with José Buttó on the 15-day IL, a recent call-up could see some closing opportunities.
This bullpen shuffle is one of Vitello’s first major moves as a big-league manager, and it will be intriguing to see how he navigates his relievers in the coming games. Giants fans should buckle up for what promises to be an exciting season of strategic surprises.