Giant of the Week: Matt Cain

When Matt Cain struggled in the first half, fans started to get antsy that the pitcher was not all he'd been built up to be. To believe that is to neglect the fact that Cain is only 23 and still receives some of the worst run support in the National League. Of course, when a report surfaced that the Phillies were interested, few were searching for truth in it. After allowing four runs in a 9-1 loss to Milwauke last week, Cain returned to form yesterday with the team's most brilliant pitching performance of the season. In two hours time, Cain allowed just four hits, no runs, no walks, while striking out four. In the most character building of moments, Cain was faced with the challenge of needing to retire two hitters in the ninth, with runners on second and third. Bruce Bochy let him face the challenge and two flyouts later, the Giants had their first complete game shutout of the season.

Honorable Mentions: Bengie Molina, Brian Wilson, Barry Zito, Omar Vizquel.