SAN FRANCISCO — Jerar Encarnación made his much-anticipated return to the San Francisco Giants lineup this week, stepping in during a time of adversity for the team. The 27-year-old outfielder, who has had a tumultuous journey back from injury, is stepping into a lineup that has been struggling significantly, particularly at first base.
Before Encarnación’s activation from the injured list, the Giants faced challenges, ranking a dismal 28th in Major League Baseball in OPS at first base, highlighted by a mere .185 batting average and just four home runs over an extensive period. His presence was seen as a potential revitalization for a team in need of offensive spark.
On the day of his return, regular first baseman LaMonte Wade Jr. sustained a wrist injury that further opened the door for Encarnación’s involvement. Though Encarnación debuted in the outfield, the Giants have plans for him to contribute significantly at first. His first game back saw Encarnación face some struggles, including a strikeout and a couple of groundouts, but he ultimately showed promise with a hard-hit ball in the game’s final moments, suggesting his comfort on the field is improving.
Manager Bob Melvin expressed optimism about Encarnación’s ability to contribute, particularly emphasizing his power and the potential impact he could have, whether he slots into the designated hitter role or at first base. “We know he can give us some power; he’s got power to all fields,” Melvin noted, alluding to the potential boost Encarnación can provide.
After a solid showing in spring training and an encouraging stint in Triple-A, where he batted .348 with two homers in seven games, Encarnación seems poised to bring a much-needed jolt to the Giants’ offense. Despite feeling some pressure to perform, he remains focused on simply contributing to the team, maintaining a calm demeanor and a strong sense of teamwork.
The Giants are hopeful that Encarnación will not only meet but exceed their expectations, helping to turn around a sluggish offensive performance as they navigate a challenging season. As the team continues to rely heavily on his abilities, fans and teammates alike share optimism for future prospects from the talented young player.