SAN FRANCISCO— It appears that it was an unlucky day for the San Francisco Giants in their game against the Oakland Athletics on Friday, June 13, 2008.   The team was pounded by the A’s, 5-1. The Giants scored their only run in the game during the second inning.  Omar Vizquel made history by scoring the run.   He is the first Giant player to steal home base since Max Venable successfully did so back in April 1983.  The Giants were able to get 5 hits in the game, compared to Oakland who managed 9 hits during the game.  

San Francisco pitcher Barry Zito gears up as he prepares to launch a ball. Photo courtesy of Ben Margot/AP.

          Leading Oakland to victory was 2nd baseman Mark Ellis, who had two hits and two runs, while left fielder Jack Cust scored one run, had one hit and two RBI’s in the game.  It appears the Giants offense was completely shut down by the Oakland Athletics. Pitcher Greg Smith allowed only three hits during the 5 innings that he played in. The A’s got off to a slow start, but exploded during the third inning where they scored three runs.  They later scored runs in the sixth and seventh innings (one apiece).

          San Francisco pitcher Barry Zito didn’t play at his best in Friday’s loss.  He allowed six hits and four runs.   He also allowed four Oakland players to walk, but he did manage to strike out three players. The Giants just weren’t able to get their offense going in the game.   With the bases loaded in the fifth, San Francisco was unable to pull an upset over pitcher Greg Smith. Smith struck out Giant stars Bengie Molina and Aaron Rowand.

The Giants now have a record of 30-38 in the National League.   The A’s have a record of 36-31.   Up next for Giants after their series with Oakland is a three game series against the Detroit Tigers, who have been on a six-game winning streak.