The Giants welcomed back Camilo Doval on Saturday.

Doval, an All-Star closer in 2022, was sent to Sacramento on August 9 after his earned run average (ERA) rose to 4.70 following a series of ineffective performances that included five blown saves.

Doval can be available out of the bullpen when the Giants visit the Seattle Mariners after losing 6-5 in 10 innings on Friday night.

In five games with the River Cats, Doval was 1-0 with a 3.18 earned run average, one walk and 7 strikeouts. Considering Doval allowed 29 batters to walk in 44 innings this season, the reduced walk total is encouraging.

“We just hoped he understood what was going on and realized this was an opportunity for him to get a handle on things,” Giants manager Bob Melvin told reporters before the sport. “There's always a chance that somebody could go down and feel a little cheated. It was anything but that. He's been working on those things. I give him a lot of credit for a guy who was an All-Star last year to take that time to really be productive.”

The Giants announced the move before Saturday's game against Seattle.

With closer Ryan Walker likely unavailable after 25 pitches and two innings Friday night, Doval could play as a better if needed.

Last season, Doval led the National League with 39 saves in 69 appearances and was a member of the NL All-Star team.

To make room for Doval, Landon Roupp was sent to Sacramento.

Originally published: August 24, 2024 at 12:17 pm