An otherwise frustrating day for the Giants was highlighted by an annual ceremony near and dear to the organization.
Giants infielder Thairo Estrada received the 2023 Willie Mac Award before Friday's series opener against the rival Los Angeles Dodgers at Oracle Park.
Stay in the game with the latest updates on your beloved Bay Area and California sports teams! Sign up here for our All Access Daily newsletter.
Estrada is the 46th Giants player to win the award and joined a list that includes current teammates Wilmer Flores (2022), LaMonte Wade Jr. (2021), Mike Yastrzemski (2020) and Brandon Crawford (2016).
"First of all, I want to say thank you," Estrada said through interpreter Erwin Higueros. "I feel privileged and honored to receive this award. I want to thank the staff, my teammates and most of all you fans. Because of you, I play really hard on the field. I feel very honored, thank you very much."
Estrada has been one of the Giants' best all-around players this season and leads all position players with 4.0 Wins Above Replacement while batting .274/.318/.423 with 14 home runs, 49 RBI, 23 stolen bases and a 103 OPS+.
San Francisco Giants
He stepped up as a leader on and off the field in an otherwise frustrating season for the Giants and inspired teammates with his heart and hustle.
Estrada quickly has become a fan favorite and now has earned his place in Giants franchise history.