Rick Scuteri-USA TODAY Sports
As of last week, vaccinations are open in Arizona for anyone 16 and above, and some Giants have jumped at the opportunity.
During spring training in Scottsdale, Gabe Kapler has received his first shot of the Pfizer vaccine that protects against the coronavirus. California is opening the vaccine to those 50 and older on April 1, and two weeks later Gov. Newsom has said all California adults should be eligible.
The Giants have provided their players with information about the different vaccines, and lefty Caleb Baragar tweeted Monday that he had just received his first dose.
“There are several players and several staff who are sporadically getting the vaccine,” said the manager, who knows when and if his players are getting the shots. There are some mild side effects associated with the vaccine, which is miniscule in comparison but worth knowing for players who need each limb healthy to perform. “We’re up to speed on some guys having some mild side effects, we’re up to speed on if there’s soreness in the arm. We’re being cognizant of that.”
The Giants have two days off before the start of the season, so some may have taken advantage in getting the shot, as any immediate soreness would not affect them in games. Kapler said he hasn’t had any side effects.
Other teams reportedly have gotten the vaccines as a group, which the Giants have not. Farhan Zaidi said last week they were waiting for league guidance before that sort of coordination.
Logan Webb, who went six innings in the 7-2 win over the A’s at Hohokam Stadium to finish up exhibition play, gave up his first run of the Cactus League. He finished his statement spring with 17 innings pitched and one run allowed.
He was not quite as unhittable as he’s been, merely striking out five, but that’s how far he has cranked up the bar in going from a fringe rotation member to the Giants’ No. 3 starter in their opening series.
“It’s awesome,” Webb said of getting the ball Saturday in Seattle. “I’m honored to be able to make the team and pitch that third game. I’m excited, the whole team’s exited. It’s going to be a lot of fun.”
His changeup and his confidence have been noticeably different.
“He certainly had as good a camp as any pitcher we have and probably the best camp of anybody on our roster,” Kapler said.
Evan Longoria played third, and Brandon Belt played first. They both seem ready for April 1.
Infield prospect Will Wilson finished a strong spring with his second home run of the Cactus League.