Giants option Harrison, finalizing fifth rotation spot candidates

The San Francisco Giants have decided to option pitcher Kyle Harrison, leaving Hayden Birdsong and Landen Roupp as the final candidates for the fifth spot in their starting rotation. Manager Bob Melvin indicated that Harrison was not really in contention due to being behind in his training and development. Harrison was expected to be a strong contender for the role after a good previous season. However, he lost weight due to illness just before spring training, which set him back. In contrast, Birdsong and Roupp have performed well, each pitching 12 innings this spring, while Harrison has only managed 6 and 2/3 innings. The Giants will continue to evaluate Birdsong and Roupp as they move closer to Opening Day. Birdsong has been impressive with a 0.75 ERA and no walks in his appearances. Roupp has also performed well with a 3.75 ERA, but Birdsong seems to have the edge. There could be a scenario where both players make the Opening Day roster, with one starting and the other providing relief. The decision on who fills the final rotation spot is still pending, but both players have shown strong potential. Additionally, right-hander Keaton Winn was also optioned out, and left-hander Joey Lucchesi has been reassigned to minor league camp. This means Erik Miller will be the only left-handed reliever in the bullpen when the season begins.