The Giants took a beating Friday in Denver, and their bullpen paid the price Saturday.Reliever Matt Gage was placed on the 15-day injured list with a left elbow strain after throwing a career-high 51 pitches in 1 1/3 innings as the Giants lost 15-3 to the Rockies at Coors Field.
Right-handed pitcher Spencer Bivens was recalled to take Gage’s roster spot.
Gage, who hadn’t pitched since June 26, allowed four hits, six earned runs and walked two batters in his 34th appearance of the season.
Over his previous three relief appearances, Gage had thrown a total of 50 pitches, putting into context how heavy a workload he had on Friday.
In 27 1/3 innings this season, Gage has a 5.60 ERA and 22 strikeouts. His previous season high in pitches was 37, and that is the only other time he has surpassed 30 pitches this year.
Before this season, Gage’s career high was 41 pitches in two innings against the Atlanta Braves last July 21.
The Giants look to bounce back against the Rockies on Saturday night, with Robbie Ray (3.39 ERA) taking on Sean Sullivan (8.64 ERA).
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