SAN FRANCISCO — Bob Melvin had awaited the opportunity to add Jerar Encarnación to the San Francisco Giants’ lineup after the dynamic player completed his recovery from a long-term injury.
In a closely contested match, Encarnación returned from a 60-day injured list to make his season debut in a 1-0, 10-inning loss against the San Diego Padres at Oracle Park in the first game of a four-game series.
Taking over for Mike Yastrzemski in the sixth inning, Encarnación ended the game 0 for 3 but impressed Melvin by drawing the final out against the powerful Padres closer, Robert Suarez.
“On your first day back, you face some challenging scenarios,” Melvin noted. “He seemed to gain more comfort as the game progressed.”
Melvin was hopeful to have Encarnación start in the lineup on Tuesday, either at first base or in right field.
After a diving catch attempt during spring training left him with a broken left hand, Encarnación underwent surgery in March. Prior to his injury, he showcased his potential by batting .302, including two home runs and 14 RBIs in Cactus League play. In the previous year, he managed a .248 average with five home runs and 19 RBIs over 113 at-bats.
“We recognize his capability to provide power and his ability to hit to all fields,” Melvin remarked. “He displayed that at the end of last year and in spring training. As spring training concluded, there were many at-bats available for him.”
The Giants are in need of a strong offensive spark, and Encarnación aims to fulfill that need.
“My goal is to contribute to the team in any way I can,” said Encarnación, originally from the Dominican Republic, who initiated his MLB career with Miami in 2022 before signing with the Giants as a free agent last May.
To allow Encarnación to join the lineup, the Giants sent outfielder Luis Matos to Triple-A Sacramento to gain more experience and consistent playtime.
The Giants recently returned from a road trip with five losses out of nine games against Washington, Detroit, and Miami. Across the last 16 games, they have struggled offensively, scoring only 30 runs, the lowest in such a stretch since a similar run in summer 2014. They have also faced a shutout for the seventh time this year and the third time in their last nine outings.
“His versatility is valuable as he plays multiple positions and serves as a pinch hitter,” commented Melvin. “It’s refreshing to have him back. During spring training, he was considered very influential. His remarkable spring was cut short by injury, but he’s hitting well and prepared to return.”
Although eager to rejoin the team, Encarnación was patient, relying on his faith during his recovery. He missed the season’s initial 59 games but completed a successful rehab stint with Triple-A Sacramento, appearing in seven games across various positions and roles.
“I’m thrilled and very happy to be here,” he expressed, adding with a smile, “I feel great, muy bueno.”
Pitcher Logan Webb shared his enthusiasm for Encarnación’s return.
“Jerar’s enthusiasm, smile, and energy are contagious,” Webb remarked. “Having him back is exciting for me and, I’m sure, for everyone else in the clubhouse.”