San Francisco Giants vs Colorado Rockies Picks and Predictions May 3rd 2025

Rested Bradley Blalock Gets Critical Start for Rockies vs. Slumping Giants in Game 3 Showdown

The Colorado Rockies are turning to a rested Bradley Blalock in a pivotal Saturday start against the San Francisco Giants, as both teams navigate early-season turbulence during their ongoing four-game series at Oracle Park.

After splitting the first two games—Colorado winning 4-3 on Thursday and the Giants bouncing back 4-0 on Friday—all eyes are now on two young pitchers with much to prove.

Bradley Blalock Gets His Shot Amid Rockies Rotation Shuffle

Right-hander Bradley Blalock (0-1, 10.29 ERA) will be making his second start of the season, stepping in after Ryan Feltner was placed on the 15-day injured list (retroactive to April 29) due to a back issue.

Originally on the Opening Day roster as a reliever, Blalock struggled early and was sent down after two shaky relief appearances. He returned last week for an emergency start against the Cincinnati Reds, but allowed six earned runs in four innings in an 8-1 loss.

Despite the rough outing, Rockies manager Bud Black emphasized Blalock is “rested, ready to go,” suggesting the team hopes for better results with more preparation and a clean slate.

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Giants’ Lineup Adjustments Amid Offensive Struggles

The San Francisco Giants, now 3-4 over their last seven games, have struggled mightily at the plate. They’ve scored four or fewer runs in each of those contests and managed just 12 extra-base hits during the stretch—five of them solo home runs.

With Tyler Fitzgerald out due to a fractured rib, the Giants are rotating options at second base. Christian Koss has filled in but is hitting just .207 and has no extra-base hits in 33 plate appearances.

Enter Brett Wisely, a left-handed hitter and defensive utility man, who began the season in the minors. Wisely impressed in early 2023 with a .286 average over 43 games before tapering off late. Manager Bob Melvin hinted that Wisely could earn more time based on performance, even if it’s not a full platoon with Koss.

“Koss has played pretty well when he’s been in there,” Melvin said. “But Wisely will get at least one game this weekend, and then we’ll see where it goes.”

Jordan Hicks Looks to Rebound for Giants

On the mound for San Francisco will be Jordan Hicks (1-3, 6.12 ERA), who has not recorded a win in five consecutive starts after an impressive season debut in Houston, where he threw six shutout innings of one-hit baseball.

Hicks was solid in his last outing, allowing just two runs in five innings in a 3-2 win over the Texas Rangers, though he didn’t factor into the decision.

Historically, Hicks has handled the Rockies well. He’s 3-1 in 10 appearances against Colorado with a 4.58 ERA, offering a potential bright spot for the Giants’ rotation. Don’t miss out on our Daily Baseball Picks from MLB Expert Handicappers

Key Matchup to Watch

• Bradley Blalock vs. Giants Offense: Can a vulnerable Blalock hold off a lineup desperate to score?
• Jordan Hicks vs. Rockies Bats: Will Hicks reclaim early-season form or continue his winless streak?

This game may hinge on which pitcher seizes the opportunity—and whether the Giants’ bats finally wake up.

Quick Stats: Rockies vs. Giants (Game 3 Preview)

Conclusion

With both teams trying to gain momentum and stabilize their lineups and pitching rotations, this third game in the series has added significance. Bradley Blalock’s start is more than just a fill-in—it’s an audition to secure a permanent role. Meanwhile, the Giants hope Brett Wisely can reignite their sputtering offense.

Will the Rockies’ gamble on Blalock pay off, or will Jordan Hicks and the Giants bounce back with a crucial series lead?