In a thrilling display of skill and determination, the San Francisco Giants triumphed over the Seattle Mariners with a score of 4-1 on April 6, 2025, at Oracle Park in San Francisco. This victory marks the Giants' sixth consecutive win, solidifying their strong start to the season with an impressive record of 7 wins and just 1 loss, placing them second in the National League West.
The star of the game was undoubtedly Lee Jung-hoo, who showcased his talent as the Giants' center fielder and third batter in the lineup. Lee delivered a stellar performance, going 3-for-4 at the plate, which included two doubles, two runs, and a stolen base. This game marked Lee's first three-hit game of the season and his fifth career three-hit game since making his major league debut.
Fans at Oracle Park were treated to an electrifying atmosphere, with chants of "Jung Hoo Lee" echoing throughout the stadium as he stepped up to the plate. In the fourth inning, with the game tied at 0-0, Lee swung at a 95 mph splitter from Seattle's starting pitcher Bryce Miller and drove the ball down the right-field line for a two-run double. His aggressive base running didn't stop there; Lee then stole third base, a move that caught the Seattle battery off guard.
Following Lee's double, Matt Chapman came up to the plate and added to the Giants' score with a two-run double of his own, allowing Lee to cross home plate for the first run of the game. The Giants took a 2-0 lead, setting the tone for the remainder of the match.
In the sixth inning, with the Giants leading 2-1, Lee continued his offensive onslaught. He stepped up to bat again and connected with an 82 mph knuckle curve from Miller, sending the ball deep into the outfield for another two-run double. This hit was particularly noteworthy as it reached a speed of 168 km/h, making it one of Lee's fastest hits of the season. His performance not only added to the Giants' lead but also demonstrated his growing prowess at the plate.
Lee's remarkable day wasn't finished yet. In the seventh inning, with two outs and no runners on base, he recorded his third hit of the game, a single to left field. This hit capped off a stellar performance that has seen Lee's batting average rise to .321, with an OPS of .887, as he continues to find his rhythm at the plate.
Defensively, the Giants were backed by a solid pitching performance from Robbie Ray, who pitched six innings, allowing only one run on four hits. Ray's strong outing was crucial in maintaining the Giants' momentum and securing the win against a competitive Mariners team.
After the game, Lee Jung-hoo was rightfully named the Player of the Game by MLB.com, an accolade that reflects his significant contribution to the Giants' success. His performance has not only helped his team but also raised expectations for his continued growth in the MLB.
As the Giants look ahead, they will face the Mariners again on April 7 for the third game of their series, with the first pitch scheduled for 5:05 AM. With Lee's current form and the team's winning streak, fans are eager to see if the Giants can extend their success and continue climbing the standings.
Lee Jung-hoo's achievements this season are particularly impressive. He has already amassed five doubles and three stolen bases, surpassing his totals from last season, where he recorded four doubles and two stolen bases. His current batting statistics reflect a marked improvement, showcasing his development as a key player for the Giants.
The Giants' organization is also capitalizing on Lee's growing popularity, as they are running a promotional event called the "Jung Hoo Crew," where fans entering certain sections of the stadium will receive free Lee Jung-hoo T-shirts during the series against Seattle and upcoming series against the Texas Rangers and Colorado Rockies. This initiative highlights Lee's importance not only on the field but also as a fan favorite.
In summary, the San Francisco Giants are riding a wave of success, led by the dynamic play of Lee Jung-hoo. With a strong start to the season and a growing fanbase, the Giants are poised for an exciting year ahead as they aim for a deep playoff run.