GOOD NEWS: SF Giants veteran nearing return after beginning rehab assignment in San Jose
The bullpen of the SF Giants is expected to receive a boost soon. Luke Jackson, an experienced reliever, is close to making a comeback after starting a rehab assignment with the San Jose Giants on Thursday, according to the team’s transaction log.
SF Giants veteran reliever nearing a return after beginning rehab assignment in San Jose
Jackson suffered a minor lower back strain during his first game of the season and subsequently was placed on the injured list. Fortunately, the injury isn’t severe, and he’s expected to be out for just a couple of weeks unless there are any setbacks.
During his only appearance this season, Jackson struggled, allowing three earned runs without recording an out against the San Diego Padres on Opening Day.
The Giants signed Jackson to a two-year contract worth $9.5 million prior to the 2023 season, with a club option for 2025 and a $2 million buyout clause, making the total guaranteed amount $11.5 million.
Jackson was recovering from Tommy John surgery at the time of signing, so the team anticipated his absence for the early part of the 2023 season. Upon his return, he performed well, posting a 2.97 ERA, 3.29 FIP, 1.23 WHIP, 11.6 K/9, and a 2.87 SO/W ratio in 33.1 innings pitched.
The bullpen has struggled this season with a 4.90 ERA, and there’s hope that Jackson’s return will help improve its performance. In his absence, Ryan Walker and Erik Miller have emerged as strong options in Bob Melvin’s bullpen, alongside Tyler Rogers and Camilo Doval, who hold key roles as high-leverage reliever and closer, respectively.
Walker has been relied upon heavily, posting a 4.09 ERA in 11 appearances with 13 strikeouts and three walks. Miller, despite his higher ERA of 6.00, has shown promise with a 66.7 percent ground ball rate over nine innings, indicating potential for improvement.
Although Miller has been used in more critical situations recently, Melvin has utilized Walker in various scenarios.
Jackson’s return is anticipated to provide a significant boost to the bullpen, as he had a successful rehab outing with San Jose, signaling a potential return to the team in the near future.