September 5th, 2006: Shut Out

Arroyo Shuts Down Giants Offense

Reds pitcher Bronson Arroyo brought a shot of reality last night, pitching nine innings of 3 hit baseball and exposing once again the lack of Giants run production. With an offense largely carried by Hillenbrand and Bonds, San Francisco fans were once again reminded that while they have great starting pitching, run support will never be consistent.

"He was throwing under the hitting speed," Ray Durham said. "He was throwing sliders and getting slow curveballs over. He'd only show you the fastball to get you off the curveball. He was really pitching backward."

After allowing 3 runs in the first on 4 walks, Morris settled down, pitching through 6 more innings yielding five hits. Cincinatti would only need one run however, a consistent theme this season.

In the bottom five in both average and on base percentage, the team has managed to stay in the hunt with top notch starting pitching. The team ERA (4.30) is among the league's best, allowing only 1209 hits for fourth best in baseball.

As we move deeper into September, it becomes more evident however that the season relies on whether the team can muster together some run support. Will Bonds continue to stay hot? Will Pedro Feliz find some patience at the plate?

The other question mark is Noah Lowry's health citing elbow irritation. Tonight Jonathan Sanchez takes the mound in his stead. Certainly this kid opened some eyes earlier this season, but whether he is ready as a starter still remains. I along with Giants nation will be holding my breath tonight--the Giants playoff hopes could be at stake.