The San Francisco Giants can no longer fall back on the Cinderella story line. They have the third best record in the league, and lead the wild card chase by two games.
They are fourth in the league in hitting and first in pitching.
They have one of the best young hitters in the league in Pablo Sandoval, and two of the best starters in Lincecum and Cain. Their closer is tied for the league lead in saves and their bullpen has been excellent of late.
The lack of power excuse no longer holds water as they are among the league leaders in home runs since June 9.
The Giants have a good mix of veterans and young players, they are also well stocked with minor leaguers who are knocking on the big league door. Their road record could use improvement, but at home, they are best in the league.
So, it is time for this team to shed the overachiever tag and step up to the plate. They are a very good team that, barring serious injuries, should make the playoffs.
No more, "well, we held our own against the Phillies or Cardinals or Dodgers." We are now on a level with these teams and should compete as equals, not upstarts.
In the playoffs, I and a lot of other fans and pundits, believe that in a five game series, the Giants, with Lincecum and Cain, should excel. Now, with the possible resurrection of Sanchez, the introduction of Sadowski, Bumgarner, and Alderson chomping at the bit in the minor leagues, even a seven game series looks promising for this team.
Schierholtz and Bowker were brought up and should continue to improve. If not, we still have some intriguing trade possibilities. Ishikawa seems to be growing into his power and Uribe, Winn, and Rowand are steady if not great.
The Giants are no longer that "Cinderella Story" and need to continue with the intensity they have shown in the first half of the season. This is no longer a team of "if", but of "when."
No more excuses.
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