The San Francisco Giants have made a significant adjustment to their bullpen by reinstating Camilo Doval as the closer while moving Ryan Walker out of that role. Doval, known for his composed demeanor on the mound, showcased this calmness during Friday night’s game against the Miami Marlins, which marked his first official appearance as the team’s closer this season.
In a standout performance, Doval secured a four-out save, leading the Giants to a 2-0 victory. This game was particularly special as it was the first opportunity for his mother, Rosa, to watch him pitch in the Major Leagues. Throughout the match, she was seen embodying the calm that Doval is famous for; her relaxed reaction during the game mirrored her son’s moniker, “Tranquilo,” reflecting his serene approach under pressure.
The highlight of the game came when Doval struck out the final batter with a blazing 101 mph fastball, prompting a broad smile from Rosa as she waved goodbye to the opposing player—a heartwarming moment of pride and joy.
After the game, Doval expressed heartfelt gratitude toward his mother, recognizing the sacrifices she made to support his journey to the majors. This gesture served as a poignant reminder of the dedication behind a player’s success and the families that stand by them.
Doval has certainly seized the opportunity to shine in the big leagues, having been named an All-Star in 2023 and seemingly on track for another All-Star appearance. With an impressive 1.09 ERA over 26 games this year and a remarkable streak of not allowing a run since April 7th, he is currently the most reliable option for the Giants’ closing role. In contrast, Walker has struggled to maintain the performance levels he achieved last season, necessitating the change in the bullpen hierarchy.
Seeing Doval’s mother in the stands cheering for her son adds a personal touch to the game, and fans are hopeful that she will witness many more of his MLB appearances as his career continues to flourish.