The San Francisco Giants are a team with a long and cherished history. The team was founded in 1883 as the New York Gothams; in 1885, the team changed its name to the Giants. The Giants played their home games at the Polo Grounds. The team’s early history was marked by an enduring rivalry with the New York Yankees across the Harlem River. New York’s baseball scene featured three teams: the Dodgers, Yankees, and Giants. The Yankees’ first World Series victory in 1923 occurred against the Giants. And in 1921 and 1922, the Giants clinched their first two Championships by defeating the Yankees. This rivalry would last until 1958, when the Giants moved to San Francisco.
I’ve seen hundreds of San Francisco Giants games throughout the years, and these are among my favorites.
As I reflect on these remarkable moments, I can’t help but marvel at the enduring magic of America’s pastime and the indelible mark the Giants have left on its rich history.
These games hold a special place in my baseball memories, contributing to the formation of my deep affection for the sport. The spotlight turns to the diamond as we relive these unforgettable moments in San Francisco Giants history:
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1.
Earthquake Disrupts 1989 World Series
Date: October 17, 1989
Baseball fans who were witnessing the game on TV captured the unsettling sight of the stadium shaking, with cameras swaying and the players on the field reacting to the tremors. The broadcast feed abruptly cut off as power was lost, leaving us in suspense and uncertainty. When the Series eventually resumed,10 days later, the teams and fans came together to support the earthquake recovery efforts. In the midst of tragedy, baseball became a symbol of resilience and community solidarity. The earthquake’s impact on Game 3 remains a sad moment in sports history.
2.
Barry Bonds Passes Hank Aaron on the Home Run Record
Date: August 7, 2007
Barry Bonds surpassed Hank Aaron’s all-time home run record by hitting his 756th home run. The ball soared off his bat with tremendous force, tracing a majestic arc through the air. It swiftly cleared the outfield fence at AT&T Park, leaving a fleeting imprint against the backdrop of the stadium and solidifying his place in baseball history.
3.
Barry Bonds Homers at Yankee Stadium
Date: June 12, 2002
As I mentioned at the beginning of this article, the Yankees and Giants have not met frequently and interleague play. This was Bonds’ second time ever at Yankee Stadium. And in that game he hit a blast that astonish Yankee fans and drew a chorus of respect from the fans regardless of what team you were rooting for.
4.
Kevin Mitchell Grabs a Baseball with His Bare Hands
Date: April 21, 1989
If you’re a Giants fan, you’re familiar with Willie Mays‘ amazing catch in the 1954 World Series at the Polo Grounds. Kevin Mitchell performed a feat that was just as impressive. 1989 was the highlight of his career. He hit 47 home runs and drove in 125 runs to lead the majors, and would win that year’s NL MVP award. Along with Will Clark, they formed a formidable combination that help propel the team to their first World Series in San francisco. In the first inning of a game in St. Louis, In 1989, Kevin Mitchell made a legendary barehanded catch after Ozzie Smith hit a ball high in the air toward the foul area warning track. Mitchell caught the ball with his bare right hand, before crashing into the fence. Fans were left in a daze, as were the announcers of either teams. I actually felt a bit bad when I learned about the play, because I missed Kevin Mitchell a lot as a member of the New York Mets. He was pivotal pivotal in their Championship season. He got many at-bats in 1986 and although that was the only year I saw him in a Mets uniform as a fan [he also played with the team in 1984, though I was not a fan then].
5.
2010 World Series Game 5: Giants Break a Tie in the Seventh Inning
Date: November 1, 2010
The 2010 World Series showcased the San Francisco Giants against the Texas Rangers, ultimately resulting in the Giants winning the Series 4-1. Édgar Rentería played a pivotal role in the decisive Game 5 on November 1, 2010. With the Giants leading 1-0 in the seventh inning, Renteria faced off against Rangers pitcher Cliff Lee. In a clutch moment, he launched a three-run home run, extending the Giants’ lead to 4-0. Rentería’s timely hit proved to be the difference-maker, as the Giants went on to win the game 3-1. This victory secured the Giants’ first World Series title since moving to San Francisco, and Rentería’s standout performance earned him the World Series Most Valuable Player (MVP) award. It marked a memorable and historic season for the Giants and their devoted fanbase.
6.
San Francisco Giants Win the World Series for the Second Time
Date: October 28, 2012
This Series, the Giants’ second in three years, showcasing intense competition and thrilling moments. Pablo Sandoval‘s historic three-homer game in Game 1 set the tone for the Giants’ offensive prowess. The Giants showcased a remarkable display of skill and determination, culminating in their well-deserved victory and securing their status as champions once again. Witnessing Tim Lincecum’s dominant pitching performance, Marco Scutaro’s tenth-inning walk-off single, and Ryan Theriot‘s go-ahead hits in pivotal moments were bonus treats for fans. As the Series progressed, it became a rollercoaster of emotions, from tense extra-inning battles to the exhilaration of witnessing the Giants secure their second World Series title in three years.
7.
San Francisco Giants Play the Texas Rangers in MLB’s First Interleague Game Ever
I saw this game on TV when I lived in San Francisco in 1997, the second time I’d ever been to that great City. Jon Miller was in his first year as broadcaster for the Giants and I can remember watching a few of his games. Something want to tell me that this was a nationally televised game, though honestly, I can’t remember that fact. But I find it interesting that the Giants would meet the Rangers 13 years later in the World Series to win their first championship ever in San Francisco against the same team that they played against in MLB’s first interleague game.
8.
San Francisco Giants Win the World Series for the Third Time
Date: October 29, 2014
The 2014 World Series featured a captivating matchup between the Giants and Kansas City Royals, and went to full seven games. The Giants emerged victorious, securing their third championship in five years. Key highlights include Madison Bumgarner‘s extraordinary pitching performance. Bumgarner, a left-handed pitcher for the Giants, played a pivotal role throughout the series and was named the World Series MVP. His standout efforts included a historic five-inning save in Game 7, contributing significantly to the Giants’ triumph. The Giants’ resilience and ability to perform under pressure became evident in critical moments, ultimately culminating in their championship victory. This Series solidified the San Francisco Giants’ reputation as a powerhouse in the baseball world, marking another chapter in their storied history of success on the grandest stage.
9.
Giants Pitcher Matt Cain Pitches a Perfect Game
Date: June 13, 2012
Matt Cain made history by pitching the 22nd perfect game in MLB, marking the first in San Francisco Giants’ franchise history. Facing the Houston Astros at AT&T Park, Cain retired all 27 batters. He also recorded 14 strikeouts, tying Sandy Koufax‘s record. The game featured a number of plays that kept the perfect game intact. Cain was also only pitcher to score a run in his own perfect game.
10.
Mets and Giants Play a Game Lasting 1 Hour and 55 Minutes
Date: August 27, 1988
I did not watch this game. And it’s funny I missed it because that year, I practically listened to every Mets game that I couldn’t watch on cable. I’d like to get my hands on it to see how the innings unfold. As mentioned toward the beginning of my article, night games on the West Coast were televised quite late in New York as there is a three-hour time difference. All I could remember was picking up the New York Daily News and seeing the numbers 1:55 [game time] and Mets relief pitcher Randy Myers on the back cover. I could not believe a game could be that quick. I added this to the list, because I think that’s quite interesting. There were a number of games earlier in the 20th century that lasted under an hour, and to this day I still don’t know how that’s possible.
FUN RANDOM FACT re: Yankees and Giants rivalry: Throughout their long histories, the Yankees and Giants–two storied franchises–have met quite a few times in the World Series, yet only a handful during the regular reason–18 to be exact. A Yankees and Giants game is a special event in an age where teams do not regularly meet. In 2024, the Yankees will travel to San Francisco for the seventh time. They will meet for a three-game series on May 31-June 2.
San Francisco Giants Legends
Willie Mays
Considered one of the greatest baseball players of all time, Mays spent the majority of his career with the New York and San Francisco Giants. He was a 24-time All-Star and won two MVP awards. Mays was known for his incredible outfield catches, earning him the nickname “The Say Hey Kid.” His impact on and off the field solidifies his legacy in baseball history.
Barry Bonds
Bonds is regarded as one of the most prolific hitters in baseball history. He played for the Giants from 1993 to 2007 and set numerous records, including the all-time home run record. Bonds’ seven MVP awards showcase his dominance in the sport, even though controversy surrounds his achievements due to allegations of performance-enhancing drug use.
Willie McCovey
Known as “Stretch,” McCovey was a feared power hitter who spent the majority of his career with the Giants. He was a six-time All-Star and won the NL MVP award in 1969. McCovey’s towering home runs and clutch performances in key moments endeared him to Giants fans, making him a beloved figure in the team’s history.
Juan Marichal
Marichal was a dominant pitcher for the Giants during the 1960s. He was known for his high leg kick and fierce competitiveness. Marichal was a nine-time All-Star and compiled over 200 career wins. His precise control and ability to pitch complete games were instrumental in the Giants’ success, and he remains one of the most respected pitchers in baseball history.
Tim Lincecum
Tim Lincecum was another key pitcher for the Giants during their remarkable World Series championship runs in 2010, 2012, and 2014. Lincecum, a two-time Cy Young Award-winner, gained fame for his unorthodox pitching style and a devastating fastball that baffled opposing hitters. His contributions on the mound played a vital role in the Giants’ dominance in those championship years.
Matt Cain
Matt Cain was known for his consistent performance and reliability on the mound. His precise control and ability to mix pitches made him a formidable force in the team’s rotation. Cain played a crucial role in the Giants’ success, including their World Series victory in 2010. He continued to showcase his pitching prowess in the 2012 World Series, contributing significantly to the team’s triumph over the Detroit Tigers in a four-game sweep, securing another championship for San Francisco.