Giants' Hayden Birdsong shines in rotation debut against Royals
San Francisco Giants pitcher Hayden Birdsong delivered a strong start against the Kansas City Royals, helping the team gain stability in its pitching rotation as it competes for a playoff spot.
Key points
- Hayden Birdsong allowed one unearned run over five innings in his first start of the 2025 season.
- The 23-year-old right-hander has a 3-1 record and a 5.55 ERA with 45 strikeouts in 42.1 innings.
- Birdsong transitioned from the bullpen to the starting rotation after early struggles by other Giants pitchers.
- Manager Bob Melvin praised Birdsong's improved velocity and breaking pitches during big moments.
- Birdsong is scheduled to face the Colorado Rockies in his next start.
Hayden Birdsong, the San Francisco Giants’ 23-year-old right-hander, is quickly becoming a name to watch in the NL West. After starting the 2025 season in the bullpen, Birdsong seized his opportunity in the rotation, delivering a standout performance in his first start of the year by holding the Royals to just one unearned run over five innings and earning the win His fastball topped out at 98.4 mph, and Kansas City hitters went hitless against it, showcasing his electric stuff and poise under pressure.
Birdsong’s transition from relief to starting has paid off for the Giants, who were seeking stability after early struggles from other rotation members. Through games in 2025, Birdsong owns a 3-1 record, a.55 ERA, and 45 strikeouts over 42.1 innings, signaling his growth since debuting last June Manager Bob Melvin has praised Birdsong’s ability to deliver in big moments, noting his improved velocity and sharp breaking pitches.
Drafted in the sixth round in 2022 out of Eastern Illinois, Birdsong’s rapid rise through the minor leagues and strong early MLB numbers have energized Giants fans and added depth to San Francisco’s pitching staff With the Giants fighting for a playoff spot, all eyes will be on Birdsong as he takes the mound for his next start against Colorado.
Your questions, answered
How did Hayden Birdsong perform in his first start of 2025?
He held the Kansas City Royals to one unearned run over five innings and earned the win.
What is Hayden Birdsong's record for the 2025 season?
Birdsong owns a 3-1 record with a 5.55 ERA and 45 strikeouts over 42.1 innings.
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