The San Francisco Giants top pitching prospect Shaun Anderson made his MLB debut on Wednesday afternoon against the Toronto Blue Jays. Anderson did not get the win but he helped lead the Giants to a 4-3 win over the Blue Jays.
Shaun Anderson allowed three runs (two earned), two hits, three walks, and struck out five in five solid innings of work. He pitched well, so the Giants will give Anderson another start next week
Along with his solid outing, Anderson went 2 for 2 at the plate. He hit a double in his first career at-bat to right center field. Anderson followed that up with a single later in the game. He became the first Giants pitcher to have two hits in an MLB debut.
Primarily, Anderson used his fastball, which he throws 95 mph and has some cut to it. He also used his hard slider often. But mostly his fastball which he can also put some sink on it. I liked the way he attacked the hitters using his fastball to get ahead in counts.
The Giants acquired Anderson in 2017 trade with the Boston Red Sox, the Giants gave up Eduardo Nunez. Down in Triple-A Sacramento, Anderson has a 4.11 ERA in seven starts. He pitched 35 innings and stuck out 37 batters.
It will be interesting to see what the rest of this season beholds for Anderson. Hopefully, he can continue to pitch well and does not have to go back down to Triple-A. With Drew Pomeranz on the DL with a lat strain, Derek Holland being moved to the bullpen, and last years surprising player Dereck Rodriguez sent down to the Minors. The Giants will need Anderson to be outstanding to stabilize the starting rotation. Anderson Next start could be Tuesday against the Atlanta Braves in San Francisco.
