Jorge Soler’s three-run homer ignited a nine-run fourth inning for the San Francisco Giants, leading them to a 13-6 victory over the Los Angeles Angels and avoiding a three-game sweep. The Giants’ bats finally came alive after a struggling start, with Soler’s homer being the catalyst for the big inning.
Manager Bob Melvin was thrilled to see his team break out of their slump, saying, “You don’t see a nine-spot very often.” The win was especially sweet for Spencer Bivens, who made his major league debut and earned the victory in relief of Erik Miller.
Bivens’ journey to the big leagues was unconventional, having played in France and the independent leagues before being signed by the Giants two years ago.
The Angels’ Jose Suarez had a tough day, facing five batters in the fourth and failing to retire any of them. Matt Chapman and Austin Slater also contributed to the Giants’ scoring, with Slater adding a solo homer in the seventh. Despite a four-run ninth inning from the Angels, the Giants’ bullpen held strong, with Camilo Doval closing out the game despite a rocky finish.
The win was a much-needed boost for the Giants, who had been struggling at the plate. Soler’s homer was his eighth of the season, and the team’s nine-run inning was their most productive at home since 2008. As Soler said, “It’s good to see the team come out and have a game like that.”