Giants come back, clinch crown

That's why San Jose's first-year manager was especially proud Saturday after the Giants rallied for a 6-5 win over the Stockton Ports to wrap up their fifth consecutive California League first-half North Division title.

"We've done a nice job of playing all 27 outs this year," said Skeels, who guided Class A Augusta to 88 wins and a South Atlantic League championship last year. "I think it's a real good test of the character for this club to keep fighting.

"Good teams create opportunity. It's a credit to our entire club the way we played down the finish. Good teams play the best when it matters most."

The Giants certainly lived up to that credo Saturday night before 4,577 fans at Banner Island Ballpark.

After squandering an early three-run lead, San Jose entered the ninth inning down, 5-3. With second-place Visalia losing at Bakersfield, the Giants knew they were one good comeback away from clinching the division.

"We melted down one inning, gave away a few runs, but we stayed with it and found a way to win the game," said Skeels.

Angel Villalona's third hit of the night, a leadoff single, sparked what turned out to be an eventful final frame. Ports reliever Justin Friend hit Conor Gillaspie and his ensuing throwing error on a pickoff attempt moved both runners into scoring position.

David Maroul flied out to shallow right field and Nick Noonan struck out, leaving the Giants down to their last out. But Tyler Graham came through with a two-run single to left field, forging a 5-5 tie.

Graham stole second and came charging home when Brian Bocock reached on a throwing error by Stockton shortstop Frank Martinez, putting San Jose ahead to stay.

"They never concede a game until it's over," said Skeels. "I'm very proud of these guys."

Steve Edlefsen (1-1), who worked around a pair of walks in a scoreless eighth, didn't have any trouble setting the Ports down 1-2-3 in the ninth as San Jose extended its run of first-half championships.

The Giants weren't able to celebrate on the field, however, since they didn't find out the Rawhide had lost until entering the clubhouse. But they made up for it once they got the good news.

"It's a nice night to enjoy a lot of hard-fought success," Skeels said.