San Francisco – As Matt Cain enjoys retirement, Dereck Rodriguez has taken over the role of the hard-luck Giants starting pitcher who's adored by fans but ignored by his offense.
Though no Giants starter has received much support from a lineup that ranks among the worst in baseball, Sunday's 3-2 loss to Colorado in a Rodriguez start was the latest example of San Francisco failing to support a pitcher who deserved better.
He allowed one earned run in six innings, lowering his ERA to 2.30 with his 14th quality start in 17 outings.
"I just go out there and throw the best game I can regardless," said Rodriguez (6-4). "I know what I can control and that's the pitching part and that's the part I go out there and try to dominate in."
In 14 games this month, the Giants have scored more than three runs once, a 9-8 loss to the Rockies on Sept. 3 at Coors Field, and have made Rodriguez a winner just twice in 10 post-All-Star break starts.
"I can't say enough about this kid's makeup," manager BruceBochy said. "He goes out there and gives us a great game every start. He doesn't get concerned with the run support, he just competes."
associated Press
