Overview

• Hayden Birdsong, promoted from the bullpen, threw five innings of one-run ball in his first start of the season.
• The Giants defeated the Kansas City Royals 3-2, with Birdsong earning his second win of the year.
• Manager Bob Melvin cited Birdsong's strong performance and need for regular work as reasons for the rotation change.
• Ryan Walker recorded his ninth save in 11 opportunities, preserving the Giants' narrow victory.
• Royals starter Michael Lorenzen took the loss, allowing three runs (two earned) over 4 2/3 innings, his shortest start of the season.