Rafael Devers' frustration after a late-game substitution highlighted a difficult weekend for the San Francisco Giants.
The San Francisco Giants left Miami frustrated for more than one reason.
Not only were they swept by the Miami Marlins over the weekend, but Sunday's series finale also featured an emotional moment involving Rafael Devers, whose competitive instincts were on full display during a narrow 2-1 loss at loanDepot Park.
After drawing a leadoff walk in the ninth inning, Devers was removed in favor of pinch-runner Jonah Cox. The veteran slugger appeared unhappy with the decision, signaling toward the dugout and indicating that he believed he was capable of remaining on the bases.
Manager Tony Vitello explained after the game that the move was rooted in strategy rather than concern over Devers' availability. While Devers has dealt with some leg soreness recently, the Giants viewed Cox's speed as their best opportunity to manufacture a tying run late in a one-run game.
Vitello emphasized that he appreciated Devers' desire to stay in the contest, viewing the reaction as a reflection of the competitive edge the organization wants from its players. The manager added that Devers has repeatedly expressed confidence in his ability to run the bases during the current road trip.
The decision also came with risk. Had San Francisco tied the game, the Giants would have been without both their starting first baseman and one of their most dangerous hitters for extra innings.
Marlins Take Opener
Miami opened the series with a 4-3 victory Friday night.
The Giants briefly grabbed the lead in the sixth after Devers launched a game-tying home run and Casey Schmitt followed later in the inning with a go-ahead RBI single. However, the Marlins responded in the seventh and pulled ahead for good on Owen Caissie's sacrifice fly.
Landen Roupp delivered a quality effort, allowing two runs over six innings while striking out seven, but San Francisco's bullpen could not preserve the lead.
Schmitt Continues to Produce
Saturday brought more frustration in a 6-3 loss, though Schmitt continued his productive stretch at the plate.
The infielder homered and collected two doubles, accounting for much of San Francisco's offense. Drew Gilbert also contributed an RBI single, but Miami broke the game open with a four-run fourth inning.
Trevor McDonald struggled with command, allowing five runs before exiting early as the Marlins secured their seventh consecutive home victory.
Webb's Gem Goes Unrewarded
Sunday's finale featured another outstanding outing from Logan Webb.
The right-hander allowed just two runs across eight innings while giving the Giants a chance to avoid the sweep. Webb surrendered only one walk and continued an impressive stretch that has seen him work deep into games consistently.
Unfortunately for San Francisco, the offense could not capitalize. Casey Schmitt drove in the Giants' lone run, and Miami's bullpen held the club to just four hits.
The sweep dropped the Giants after a challenging road series, while the Marlins continued one of baseball's hottest stretches. San Francisco now returns home looking to regroup as it opens a series against the Athletics.
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