Giants Finalize Rotation: Roupp Named Fifth Starter, Birdsong Heads to Bullpen

SAN FRANCISCO — The San Francisco Giants have finalized their starting rotation for the upcoming season, naming Landen Roupp as the fifth starter, manager Bob Melvin announced Monday. Roupp earned the spot over fellow right-hander Hayden Birdsong, who will begin the season in the bullpen.

Roupp, 26, showcased impressive performance throughout spring training, culminating in a solid 3.75 ERA across four Cactus League appearances. He struck out 14 batters while issuing only one walk in 12 innings. On the final day of spring training, Roupp delivered a standout performance against the Triple-A River Cats, where he pitched five innings, allowing only one hit and striking out eight.

“Both (Roupp and Birdsong) had great springs, so really we could go either way with it,” Melvin said. “I think Roupp pitched a little bit more toward the end.”

Birdsong, 23, also had an impressive spring, posting a 0.75 ERA and an 18:0 strikeout-to-walk ratio in 12 innings. However, a cracked nail on his right middle finger affected his final outing, limiting him to just one out and three runs allowed.

“I’m not concerned about the nail,” Birdsong said following the team’s decision. “It happens to me often. I’ll be ready to go on Thursday in Cincinnati if needed.”

Before the competition began, left-hander Kyle Harrison was deemed the favorite for the fifth starter spot but was optioned to Triple-A Sacramento due to performance issues stemming from a recent illness. Melvin stated the decision to keep Birdsong in the bullpen was part of a strategy to reward players who had strong springs.

“We want to start with what we think is our best group,” Melvin said. “We’re trying to reward guys who had good springs and deserve to be on the team,” which ultimately cost Sean Hjelle a spot in the bullpen after he appeared in 58 games last season.

As Opening Day approaches, the Giants’ pitching rotation has solidified with Logan Webb, Justin Verlander, Robbie Ray, Jordan Hicks, and now Roupp. The bullpen features Ryan Walker, Camilo Doval, Tyler Rogers, Erik Miller, Spencer Bivens, Randy Rodriguez, Lou Trivino, and Birdsong.

Melvin has been impressed by Roupp’s development over the past year, noting his striking ability to adapt. Roupp posted a commendable 0.89 ERA over 30.1 innings during the end of the previous season, including both starting and relief appearances.

Roupp primarily relied on a sinker and curveball last season but developed a cutter and four-seam fastball for the spring, enhancing his capabilities as a starter. When informed of his new role, Roupp maintained a composed demeanor, as is typical for him.

“Pretty stoic,” Melvin commented on Roupp’s reaction to the news. “I think I saw a little bit of a hint of a smile. But that’s how he is.”

Meanwhile, Jerar Encarnacion, who recently fractured his left ring finger, was scheduled to undergo surgery on Monday, but the procedure has been postponed due to travel difficulties. Harrison, initially scratched from a scheduled start on Sunday, was set to participate in an intrasquad game in Sacramento.