LOS ANGELES–Hunter Strickland is the longest-tenured member of the San Francisco Giants’ bullpen.
Now, he has the most important role.
After the Giants placed closer Mark Melancon on the disabled list Thursday with a flexor strain, Strickland will take Melancon’s place until he returns.
Manager Bruce Bochy said prior to the Giants’ Opening Day clash with the Dodgers that he’s hopeful Melancon will return to action within the next few weeks, but Melancon said he’s experienced discomfort throughout the spring and can’t throw on flat ground for more than 30 feet without feeling pain.
Strickland made eight scoreless appearances this spring and debuted a retooled slider that he honed with Hall of Famer John Smoltz this offseason.