Giants vs Rockies Preview: Battle at Coors Field

The Giants roll into Colorado holding a 22-35 record—they're struggling right now. A four-game losing streak has the team searching for answers. Logan Webb takes the mound for San Francisco. He's one of baseball's most dependable starters and an All-Star in back-to-back years. The Giants' lineup features some serious power bats. Rafael Devers and Willy Adames give them pop in the middle of the order. But the team needs those bats to wake up fast. The Rockies sit at 21-37, so this matchup pits two teams fighting for momentum heading into June.

Playing at Coors Field isn't easy for any pitcher. The thin mountain air makes the ball fly farther and faster. Webb posted a 7.36 ERA this season—that's rough. The altitude amplifies his challenge. Hunter Goodman leads the Rockies' offense. The young catcher is a breakout star hitting about 350. Ezequiel Tovar, the Rockies' shortstop, brings 318 average at the plate. Both hitters love that thin air. Webb must command his fastball precisely. One mistake gets launched into orbit. The Giants' defense, anchored by Matt Chapman's Gold Glove skills, will need to be sharp.

Both teams are limping through May. San Francisco won only two of its last ten games. Colorado sits just one game worse. When your offense struggles, elite defense becomes everything. Matt Chapman is one of the best defensive third basemen in baseball. He's won five Gold Gloves for his work at the hot corner. Ezequiel Tovar earned his own Gold Glove at shortstop last season. These defenders make the spectacular plays that keep games close. Jake McCarthy brings speed and versatility to Colorado's lineup. Good defense keeps bad stretches from becoming disasters. Saturday night, both teams need pitching to survive. Defense will determine who stays in this game.