SAN FRANCISCO — The Giants will line up behind their youngest starter to begin the postseason.
Manager Gabe Kapler announced Wednesday that Logan Webb will start Game 1 of the National League Division Series on Friday and Kevin Gausman will start Game 2. The Giants are TBD on the next two games, and Kapler said part of that decision will come down to the opponent. The Giants will face either the Los Angeles Dodgers or St. Louis Cardinals.
Kapler felt comfortable with starting either of his top right-handers on Friday. Gausman was his ace and an All-Star in the first half and Webb was one of the National League’s best players in the second half. He had a 2.40 ERA in his final 20 starts and the Giants won 18 of them. Notably, the Giants were undefeated when Webb started at Oracle Park this season.
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“They’re both ready and excited about what’s in front of them,” Kapler said.
Kapler said rest played a part in the decision, noting what Webb’s body is bouncing back really well from starts. Gausman has been sharper this season when getting an extra day of rest. He’ll have a full week before Game 2.
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Webb went 11-3 with a 3.03 ERA during the regular season, including 158 strikeouts in 148 1/3 innings pitched. Gausman went 14-6 with a 2.81 ERA and 227 strikeouts in 192 innings pitched.
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The decision lines the 24-year-old Webb up for a potential Game 5. Kapler said Gausman would be available out of the bullpen for that game.