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Big changes could be coming to Oracle Park, and very soon. With talk of potentially moving in the fences and removing Triples Alley in right-center field, both fans and players alike seem to be on-board with the move.
Wednesday morning, Giants broadcaster Mike Krukow joined Murph & Mac to discuss the team’s recent moves and struggles of late.
Andrew Baggarly and Eno Sarris of The Athletic wrote an article revealing that the Giants organization is discussing potential changes to the ballpark, which may include removing Triples Alley as well as re-locating the bullpen mounds. Krukow believes that these changes are in the minds of Giants hitters amidst their offensive struggles.
“I think a lot of these guys have had so many balls hit that they know would have been home runs at other ballparks, that they don’t get here, I think it wears on them. If you had a new right-field and brought the fences in, I think that stigma walks right out the door.”
Discussions surrounding changes to the ballpark will remain a talking point throughout the season. Actual changes have not been decided on, but it is becoming more and more likely as the offense continues to struggle, the location of the bullpen mounds continues to be an issue, and the rapidly falling attendance.
“I do believe it will affect the entire offense. I can’t explain why all of these guys are cold, there’s nobody going off right now aside from Pablo. Everybody’s got batting averages so far from their career norm, that you can’t explain it.”
The Giants offense has battled inconsistencies all season long. Although some players may feel like Triples Alley takes away plenty of home runs, opponents have had no issues hitting home runs at Oracle Park. Being out-homered at their own park, opponents have hit 17 home runs at Oracle Park, while the Giants have only hit eight.
“Somebody is bound to get hot, two or three guys are normally swinging it pretty good. You’ll see two or three guys scuffle, but you’ll never see a whole lineup scuffle. Look what they did in the last road trip, they hit home runs. I do believe that it’s in their head a bit.”
Potential changes to the ballpark may indeed boost offensive production, including home runs. Bringing in the fences is something that a lot of people, including players seem to be on board with. While changes may indeed help, they will not be the solution to the Giants’ offensive struggles. The Giants simply need more power in their lineup and adding that may reduce the frustration that comes with hitting in San Francisco.
Listen to the full interview with Mike Krukow here: