The San Francisco Giants needed a win badly. A six-game losing streak had put San Francisco in a difficult spot, and Monday night’s matchup against the San Diego Padres at Oracle Park was a chance to stop the bleeding. They got exactly what they needed, pulling out a 3-2 victory behind a dominant pitching performance and timely hitting from Casey Schmitt, who added another home run, and Rafael Devers, who drove in two runs.
At the center of the win was a 25-year-old right-hander who has made a habit of delivering when given the opportunity.
Trevor McDonald got the ball Monday and made the most of it. The question now is what comes next.
McDonald Dominates but Roster Spot Remains Uncertain
GettyTrevor McDonald of the San Francisco Giants.
McDonald threw seven innings, allowing just one run on two hits while striking out eight. He needed only 81 pitches to get through his outing, a remarkably efficient performance for a pitcher making just his third career start. He has now allowed two earned runs total across those three appearances.
Manager Tony Vitello was not shy about what McDonald brings to the table. In his words: “T-Mac’s competitiveness is something that you want to bet on.”
The backdrop, however, is complicated. Hard-throwing reliever Joel Peguero has completed his rehab from a left hamstring strain at Triple-A Sacramento and appears ready to rejoin the big league bullpen. That likely means a roster move is coming, and McDonald is one of the candidates to be optioned back down. Earlier Monday, the Giants also placed Erik Miller on the injured list with a lower back strain, which could change the calculus on who actually makes way for Peguero.
What Vitello Said About McDonald’s Future
GettyManager Tony Vitello of the San Francisco Giants.
Vitello was candid about the uncertainty surrounding McDonald’s immediate future while leaving no doubt about the long-term picture. He described the situation as ongoing conversations, acknowledging that wherever McDonald lands in the short term, he will get the ball again in a meaningful situation.
The new coaching staff has seen enough to know what they have. McDonald dominated at Dodger Stadium late last season, then struck out ten in his final appearance of the year. There is no open rotation spot at the moment, with Adrian Houser holding on despite struggles, but those situations tend to sort themselves out over a long season.
Vitello kept his postgame message straightforward: “I think you’re seeing faces that will help us.”
Final Word for the Giants
The Giants snapped their losing streak. Peguero is coming back. The roster decisions are coming sooner rather than later.
McDonald threw seven strong innings, allowed one run, and struck out eight. He has done his part. The rest is out of his hands.
Giants Get Notable Pitching Update After Snapping Losing Streak