SAN DIEGO -- The Giants have run through plenty of new faces in their outfield this season, but a homegrown hitter is returning to the roster just before the All-Star break.
Austin Slater was recalled on Monday for a three-game series with the Padres at Petco Park.
Right-hander Dereck Rodriguez was optioned back to Triple-A Sacramento.
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Slater gives the roster another right-handed bat for a series during which they'll face three lefty starters. He has had a strong year with the River Cats, posting a .436 on-base percentage and .529 slugging percentage. In the offseason, the Giants asked Slater to get more loft into his swing, and he has 12 homers in 240 minor league at-bats this season.
Slater should add a different look to an outfield that's been left-handed of late with Alex Dickerson and Mike Yastrzemski starting in the corners. He also brings versatility to the bench; the River Cats have moved Slater all over the field this season.
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Rodriguez has spent recent weeks serving as a long reliever type for the bullpen, but the Giants have a day off on Thursday and are approaching the All-Star break, so they could afford to alter their mix. It's likely that Rodriguez returns to the rotation in Triple-A. The Giants ultimately want to get him back to starting every five days.