"Bob Melvin wasn't the Giants' problem this season. No, that would have been streaky hitting, a stripped bullpen and the inability to perform in any way, shape or form when the stakes were truly high. The Giants found new and exciting ways to win games this season, but also to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory, often with a comedic flair."
"And when the cheese truly became binding, this team stood no chance an Icarus-like operation that surprised us by flying, but then saw its wings melt when it came too close to true relevance. Which begs the more important question, with the Giants officially eliminated from playoff contention: Is Melvin the solution to the woes? Now that San Francisco's late-summer soiree with success is over, and another .500 season (at best) is in the books, that's what Buster Posey will have to evaluate."
The Giants suffered from streaky hitting, a stripped bullpen and repeated failures in high-leverage moments. The team alternated between surprising wins and comedic collapses, ultimately collapsing under pressure. The late-season surge proved insufficient as the team was eliminated from playoff contention and settled around .500. Bob Melvin provided stability, strong player relationships, and an elevated baseline performance. Melvin raised the floor but did not provide the managerial ceiling needed to push the team into true contention. Buster Posey faces a critical Year 2 evaluation to decide whether 'close enough' aligns with organizational goals.
Read at www.mercurynews.com
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