Bryce Eldridge launched his first career "Splash Hit" into McCovey Cove on Thursday night, powering the San Francisco Giants to an 8-2 win against the Colorado Rockies. The rookie first baseman connected on a letter-high slider, sending the ball an estimated 106.7 mph into the bay. This was Eldridge's eighth home run of the season and the first Splash Hit for the Giants this year, marking the 109th since the ballpark opened in 2000.
The solo shot tied the game in the fourth inning, and the Giants' offense followed suit, adding runs throughout the game. The team recorded 13 hits, including two-run RBIs from Casey Schmitt, Rafael Devers, and Willy Adames. Schmitt also hit his 18th homer of the season, matching Devers for the team lead. Adames capped the scoring with his 15th home run, a two-run blast in the eighth inning.
Carson Whisenhunt earned the win, pitching 5 2/3 strong innings. The left-hander allowed two runs on three hits, with four strikeouts and four walks. His performance is a notable effort as the Giants evaluate rotation options for the second half of the season. Whisenhunt has not allowed more than two runs in either of his major league starts this season.
In a less celebrated moment, Willy Adames was seen wincing after tangling his cleats and falling behind second base. Manager Tony Vitello confirmed the shortstop is still feeling the effects of back spasms. Before his late home run, Adames had struggled at the plate, batting 4-for-23 with multiple strikeouts and a bases-loaded pop out earlier in the game.
The victory came as the Giants, who entered the series tied with the Rockies in wins, aimed to avoid a virtual tie for last place in the NL West. The outcome of the final games in the series will determine the standings entering the All-Star break.