The San Francisco Giants have started the 2016 MLB season with a 6-4 record, although that includes losses in back-to-back games. The Giants have the making of a World Series contender this year, but need to find a little more consistency on the field. It's still early, so that shouldn't be an issue as the season progresses. With 10 games completed, here's what we know about the SF Giants.
4. Angel Pagan Is On Fire
Pagan, in the final year of his contract, has started the season hot. In 10 games, he's posted a .371 batting average, a .450 on-base percentage and has two stolen bases. Pagan's play is a promising sign for the Giants, especially as a few of their other players battle injuries.
3. Giants Must Stay Healthy
It's still early this season, but the Giants have already dealt with a few injuries. Star catcher Buster Posey has missed time with a foot injury, although he did play in Thursday's loss to the Rockies. Joe Panik is battling a sore hip, although he shouldn't miss much time. Matt Cain is working his way back and has shown a bit of promise in his two starts. But Sergio Romo is heading to the disabled list already, and the Giants can't afford to lose anyone else in the bullpen. Health is always a major factor in the pennant race and while the Giants have avoided the serious injuries, there's enough of the small ones to cause some worry.
2. Reason For Concern About The Back End Of The Rotation
The Giants should be set at the top of the rotation with Madison Bumgarner, Johnny Cueto and Jeff Samardzija. However, the bottom of the rotation has been shaky so far. No. 5 starter Matt Cain is 0-1 with a 6.75 ERA, although his WHIP is 1.31. Cain is still working his way back from last year's injuries, so his play so far isn't terrible. But the pitching of Jake Peavy is a major cause for concern. The No. 4 starter, Peavy is 0-1 in two starts with a 10 ERA and a 2.44 WHIP. It's far too early to hit the panic button, but the Giants could be a little bit worried about the back-end of the rotation, especially Peavy.
1. Giants Still Look Like NL West Favorites
Despite the minor injuries and pitching problems, the Giants are still 6-4 and in first place in the AL West. That includes back-to-back losses and the Giants have a half game lead over the Rockies and Dodgers. The Dodgers are a threat, but the Arizona Diamondbacks have started the year with a poor 3-6 record. If the Giants continue to play like they have, and get a little better production out of Peavy, they should be in a great position to win the NL West and more. It is an even year after all.