I’m more confident going into next year, and that’s a big thing. But I’m also not comfortable. I want to keep getting better.
SAN FRANCISCO — Matt Duffy walked slowly to his locker and turned back toward the field after playing his 118th consecutive game. The next day was — finally — a day off. Duffy wouldn’t show up early for the defensive drills that turned a reserve middle infielder into a Gold Glove finalist at third. He would not have to tape up a sprained ankle that he played through because he had no backup. He wouldn’t be counted on to spark a depleted lineup.