Giants Minor League Update: Reggie Crawford Makes Unexpected Comeback

GOODYEAR, AZ - OCTOBER 14: Reggie Crawford #23 of the Scottsdale Scorpions bats during the game between the Scottsdale Scorpions and the Peoria Javelinas at Goodyear Stadium on Saturday, October 14, 2023 in Goodyear, Arizona. (Photo by Norm Hall/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images

The San Francisco Giants had a lively weekend in their Minor League system from Friday to Monday, highlighted by the return of Reggie Crawford to the field for a rehab assignment, this time stepping in as a first baseman. The Giants are navigating a crucial phase as they approach trade season.

In Double-A Richmond, right-handed pitcher Brad Deppermann made his comeback off the 7-Day Injured List, while outfielder Jose Astudillo from Low-A San Jose earned the title of Cal League Player of the Week.

The Sacramento River Cats faced a tough weekend, dropping their games against the Sugar Land Space Cowboys, losing 4-3 on Friday and 5-1 on Saturday. Their scheduled game on Monday was canceled due to inclement weather. The River Cats' pitching staff showed promise despite the losses, with left-hander Carson Whisenhunt and right-hander Blade Tidwell both taking the mound. Whisenhunt struggled with walks, issuing four free passes while striking out five batters in five innings. Tidwell fared slightly better, allowing one run on four hits with seven strikeouts, but also walked three hitters.

On a positive note for the Giants’ bullpen, right-hander Jason Foley resumed his rehab assignment and pitched a flawless inning with two strikeouts. However, concerns linger over right-hander Spencer Bivens, who had a rough outing, allowing four runs—three earned—in just one inning of work.

Offensively, the River Cats had a lackluster weekend. Center fielder Jared Oliva, continuing his rehab, managed two hits in nine at-bats, while third baseman Thomas Gavello went two-for-three with a double. Unfortunately, catcher Jesús Rodríguez struggled, hitting only one-for-eight with three strikeouts in his last ten games.

In Double-A Richmond, the Flying Squirrels had a quirky series against the Harrisburg Senators. After a rain-shortened game on Friday, they bounced back with a thrilling 5-4 win in extra innings on Sunday, benefiting from a series of unfortunate walks issued by the Senators that led to a walk-off victory.

As the season progresses, the Giants' minor league teams are showcasing both challenges and opportunities, setting the stage for potential roster changes in the near future.