The Giants Close the Deal Defeating Rivals

“We have to do what we do best and that’s play ball,” – Brian Wilson

 By  Antoinette Carrisos 4/14/2011
Bay Area Sports Drive

It’s a windy day at AT&T Park with jam packed seats on April 13^{th, 2011} and the last game for the San Francisco Giants to defeat their rivals, the L.A. Dodgers, before heading out on a 6-game road trip. Giant’s fans hope that they will continue the momentum of last night’s game with the Giants winning 5-4.

Giant’s players are warming up on the field and taking batting practice in the batting cage prior to the game. Outfielder and 2010 MVP Cody Ross is recovering well after straining his right calf in March. Although he is sidelined for tonight’s game, he was seen doing sprints and is confirmed to be on board for the Giants trip to Arizona this weekend.

At 7:15 pm the final game is on for the Giants to play the Dodgers, the only National League team with a winning record at AT&T Park since it opened in 2000. Lefty Jonathan Sanchez takes the hill against Dodgers southpaw Ted Lilly.

It’s a strong first inning with Aaron Rowand pulling up at 2^nd base and making it home  with the help of Aubrey Huff and Miguel Tejada scoring 1-0. Rookie Brandon Belt hits a homerun bringing the score 2-0 in the 2^nd inning. Then suddenly Dodgers catcher, Rod Barajas, hits a homer tying the game 2-2 in the 4^th inning.

The Giants regain their composure after Pablo Sandoval hits his second homerun of the year tying the game yet again 3-3. Shortly after Giants infielder, Mike Fontenot, slams the ball over the Willie Mays wall bringing the score 4-3 at the top of the 6th! The score remains 4-3 before the 9^th inning and Ted Lily is lacking consistency with his throws.      

Who’s that guy with the big black beard? It’s none other then closing pitcher, Brian Wilson, a strong believer in faith and keeping a positive mindset. Taking the mound he tells himself, “I’m the best possible pitcher for this situation and my team’s going to win.” I don’t ever think a hitter is going to hit me. You start thinking a guy can hit off you, pretty soon he is.”   

Wilson pitches a perfect 9^th inning retiring three batters on just 12 pitches and its sweet victory! The Giants win over the Dodgers 4-3. I asked Wilson what kind of pressure is being put on the Giants as far as being number 1 and having fans rely on you to accomplish it all over again. “My answer is self-induced. You create your own pressure. Emerging from the bullpen we have to do what we do best and that’s play ball,” he said.

With his big crazy eyes staring at you I can guarantee this: The Beard will be feared in 2011.