NBC Sports Bay Area’s Mike Krukow shared on KNBR’s “Murph and Markus” show Friday that the San Francisco Giants reshaped their identity with two clutch comeback wins over the San Diego Padres, especially after key roster decisions.
“By June, this was arguably their biggest series of the season, especially after losing the first four to the Padres. They had to prove they could compete—and they did,” Krukow told hosts Brian Murphy and Markus Boucher. “They salvaged the series and redefined who they are.”
Krukow emphasized that the most important takeaway from the series is how the Giants now view themselves: as a stronger, more resilient team. They split the tense four-game set, with each contest decided by just one run, and gained momentum after having dropped their first four games of the season against San Diego.
He also credited the spark to a bold decision by first-year president of baseball operations Buster Posey, who designated beloved veteran LaMonte Wade Jr. for assignment. Krukow praised the move as the kind of tough leadership the team needed.
“That was 100 percent leadership and instinct,” Krukow said. “Everyone in the clubhouse was waiting for a move that would shake things up. LaMonte’s a great guy—everyone loves him—but he just couldn’t get it going. It wasn’t an easy decision.”
Now 35-28 and just one game behind the Padres (35-26) for the National League’s second Wild Card spot, the Giants appear reenergized. And as Krukow sees it, they’re finally playing like a team that believes it belongs.
