Let This be the Last Streak

After starting this recent road trip at 1-5, including a sweep by the Dodgers in three one-run games, the Giants have turned it around and salvaged a .500 road trip with a sweep of the San Diego Padres. Rookies Matt Cain and Kevin Frandsen, taking Ray Durham's usual spot at second base due to sore legs, led the charge in the final game, which featured an odd lineup due to some aches and creaks. Emerging victorious, manager Felipe Alou jokingly dubbed this starting group his "12:35 pm combination."

Frandsen showed a rare flash of power with three extra base hits, including his first big league round tripper. The rookie downplayed the milestone, despite some power struggles in his younger years.

Meanwhile the Giants' offensive outburst meant we didn't have to see Armando Benitez for the fourth straight game. He will return to San Francisco tonight the same way he left, with a blown save under the belt. Nevertheless, for the moment it seems the Giants' season has regained much-needed life; although that phrase has been uttered (and followed by a swift losing streak) that it carries less weight.

Some closing thoughts:

• With two shutout innings in Wednesday's contest, relief pitcher Steve Kline believes he has established himself to right handed batters with a more aggressive approach.
• Contra Costa Times columnist Gary Peterson wonders if Greg Anderson's loyalty might emerge as the bright spot of this steroid scandal.
• If you're going to the game on Saturday be sure to get there early because the Giants are holding a retirement ceremony in honor of Woody himself.