PITTSBURGH -- Giants manager Bruce Bochy expressed his belief in third baseman Matt Duffy's importance to the club without explicitly saying so.
Bochy's lofty opinion of Duffy came through Tuesday when it was pointed out that Duffy, who'll be sidelined for at least two weeks, could be idled for up to three weeks, which would lead into the All-Star break. Thus, it was suggested to Bochy that Duffy, who officially went on the disabled list Tuesday with a strained left Achilles, might as well remain inactive through the July 11-13 All-Star break.
However, Bochy indicated he wants Duffy, an integral part of San Francisco's lineup, back as soon as possible.