Overview
- Giants manager Bob Melvin announced a rotation change, moving Jordan Hicks to the bullpen and promoting Hayden Birdsong to the starting rotation.
- Birdsong, who has excelled in relief with a 2.31 ERA, is set to make his first start of the season Tuesday against the Kansas City Royals.
- Hicks, struggling as a starter with a 6.55 ERA and a 1-5 record, expressed disappointment but said he is committed to contributing in the bullpen.
- Hicks signed a four-year, $44 million deal in 2023 with the intention of transitioning from reliever to starter but has faced challenges with early-inning performance and consistency.
- The Giants' decision reflects their mid-season flexibility in optimizing player roles and addressing performance issues, with trade discussions involving Hicks reportedly emerging.