With Giants catcher Bengie Molina slumping, talking heads in these parts were taking issue with the club's cleanup spot (What to do? What to do?). Really, what the Giants offense has been lacking most this season is a catalyst -- someone to get on base, to get to the opposing pitcher early, to shake things up.
Enter Eugenio Velez. The second-year player has been on tear like nobody's business. After his 3-for-6 performance tonight, he's riding an 11-game hitting streak during which he's had eight multiple-hit games and is batting .448. Although he walks too infrequently for a leadoff man, his on-base percentage has been on a consistent rise. With a little work, Velez could be the answer to that catalyst problem.
Tip of the Cup. It didn't figure in the outcome of the Cardinals' extra-inning win over the Mets, but Albert Pujols' 10th-inning grand slam -- his NL record-tying fifth of the season -- is still worth a hearty tip. Special mention for the Rays' Evan Longoria, who homered twice -- once to tie it in the eighth and again to win it in the 13th -- against Boston.
Blowing in the wind. Of seven potential saves Tuesday, four floated away with the evening breeze. The culprits: Daniel Bard, Red Sox (1); John Bale, Royals (4); Kiko Calero, Marlins (2); Francisco Rodriguez, Mets (4).
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