Joc Pederson Blasts Off as Designated Hitter for D-Backs
In a pivotal National League West matchup, the Arizona Diamondbacks turned to veteran slugger Joc Pederson to provide some punch in the lineup against the San Francisco Giants. After cracking a pinch-hit homer the previous night, Pederson was rewarded with the designated hitter spot and the three-hole in Thursday’s batting order.
The former All-Star didn’t disappoint in his expanded role. Pederson jumped on an early mistake pitch from Giants starter Alex Cobb, drilling a no-doubt blast over the right field wall to open the scoring.