Sabean Thinks They've Got a Shot, We're Not So Sure

When asked if the Giants could contend this year, Brian Sabean responded, "As long as we've got a chance to stay in and around third place, why not?" In a sense, you like this attitude, especially when he says, "Why wouldn't you want to think that way? These guys think that way." I'm glad if these guys think this way - I would expect nothing less from Aaron Rowand, Bengie Molina and Rich Aurilla - who are proven competitors. On the younger side, Tim Lincecum, Fred Lewis and Brian Wilson are showing wisdom and drive beyond their years. Sabean adds, "Between what people thought of us and how we're actually performing, I think these guys have a lot to be proud of."

You know we agree - at least to a certain degree, but Sabean's statement kind of neglects a certain personal responsibility he needs to account for. Against the Phillies in two series and in this most recent series with Houston, the Giants showed that they can compete with a good team day after day. The problem is, they went 3-3 versus the Phillies and lost three of four to Houston. And just about every one of these losses was a game the Giants could have one. Yesterday's was exceptionally tough, being a game the Giants lead 7-3 entering the eighth. The players - a somewhat awkward mix of respectable veterans and talented but unproven youngsters - should be proud; management should not.

Even the best of starters need to be on their A game start after start to allow for the potential of victory with this sporadic offense. Is it a pitcher's fault if he allows three runs in six innings and loses? Is it John Bowker's fault if he struggles with a pitch he's never seen before. The players of the 2008 Giants have been thrown in a sink-or-swim situation, and there's enough character and integrity to stay afloat. But the makeup of Sabean's squad this year is no Moneyball calculation - it's a random assortment of talent to be evaluated. I think of 2008 as extended Spring Training.

Bruce Bochy can explain fundamentals to Eugenio Velez all he wants, but the bottom line is he wouldn't be a starter at this point on any other team. He will someday be ready, but now he's got to learn the big leagues without training wheels.

The problem with the 2008 Giants is not fundamentals or character - the problem is the lack of a cohesive unit. The chemistry displayed is quite amazing given the circumstances. I see many signs that the Giants have a bright future with many of these players. But I also wonder how we got here, and whether - with Peter Magowan's lomming exit - if some new faces would help shape things better than the current Bochy/Sabean administration.