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Giants Reshuffle Rotation: Birdsong Steps In as Starter, Hicks Returns to Bullpen

Hayden Birdsong will make his first start of the season Tuesday, while Jordan Hicks accepts his bullpen role but remains hopeful for a return to starting.

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.