Starting lineup news ahead of the series opener indicated Devers would move from the designated hitter role to first base for the opener against the Braves. This marks his 59th appearance at first base this season, as he has alternated between DH and 1B. When hitting as the designated hitter this season, Devers is batting .288. However, his batting average drops to .217 when he plays first base, across 246 plate appearances. Overall, the three-time All-Star is batting .235 with 73 hits, 23 doubles, one triple, 36 runs, 38 RBIs, and 12 home runs in 80 games this season.
Historically, Devers spent nine seasons with the Red Sox, where he batted .279. Since joining the Giants, he has hit .236 over 170 games.
Giants’ current status: Following the loss to the Athletics, San Francisco had won the first two games of that series and stood at 33-47 on the season, the second-worst record in the National League. Over the last 10 games, the Giants have gone 5-5. Right-hander Trevor McDonald is set to start Friday night, making his 10th appearance of the season. He enters with a 2-5 record and a 4.93 ERA in 45.2 innings. In his most recent outing, McDonald allowed three runs over three innings.
Braves’ current status: The Braves announced their starting lineup for the series opener as well. Atlanta recently endured a four-game series sweep by the San Diego Padres and stand at 48-31, leading the National League East by four games over the Philadelphia Phillies.
Key players for the Braves entering the series include a lineup featuring Marcus Harris II in center field, Donovan Dubón in left field, Matt Olson at first base, Ozzie Albies at second base, Danny Baldwin at catcher, Austin Riley at third base, Marcell Yaztrzemski in right field, and Hyun Kim at shortstop, with RHP Kyle López slated to start on the mound.
In summary, Friday’s game will feature Devers transitioning back to first base for the Giants, who are looking to rebound from a recent skid, while the Braves aim to extend their lead atop the NL East after a rough setback against San Diego. The series opener at Oracle Park promises a competitive matchup as both teams jockey for position in their respective divisions.
