The Kids Are Alright

The Giants just lost two games to Arizona, but there is much to smile about. No, not the fact that Barry Zito only pitched 3 2/3, couldn't hold a three run lead, and is now 0-5; I don't know what the fuck to do about that. But let's reserve Zito-bashing for another day, and suggest maybe moving him to the 'pen upon Noah Lowry's return because everyone else has pitched better.

Overall, I like this team ... and here's what I like:

The Kids: Please no Ray Durham, and even my sentimental Richie Aurilla feelings are fading. Give me Bowker at first, Velez at second, and Fred Lewis in the outfield. This is going to be one hell of a lineup someday. Lewis and Eugenio Velez make a great 1-2 punch atop the lineup. Sure, they make mistakes - on Monday, Lewis hit into an inning-ending double play with runners on first and second, going after the first pitch from a reliever; a few innings later, Velez blew a rally opportunity trying to stretch a double into a triple. Mistakes will be made, but that's a part of learning the game. I still feel like the team has a better shot at winning with these guys in the lineup than with the vets. Besides, Lewis's stroke has been hot for the past couple weeks. I'm going to be the first to call the Lewis/Velez combo the new Brett Butler/Robby Thompson.

The 'Pen: These are the unsung heroes of the 2008 Giants, and another reason why we could actually win some games this year. Brian Wilson is quickly developing into a strong closer, saving five games in six opportunities. And let's not forget about the rest of these guys, who - with the exception of Brad Hennessey have been consistently strong. Last night, the bullpen had to come in early, and Yabu, Vinnie Chulk, and Tyler Walker combined for 4 1/3 scoreless innings, which at least gave the Giants a chance to come back.

It's not all sunshine if you look at the standings, but the Giants future is looking a bit brighter than you may have previously suspected.