'Grinder' Brown earns NLDS roster spot
Giants manager cites outfielder's skill as bunter, pinch-runner, defender
WASHINGTON -- After being passed over by others when the Giants needed outfield help during the regular season, Gary Brown has become an essential part of the club's postseason roster.
Brown not only was included on San Francisco's 25-man contingent for Wednesday's National League Wild Card Game, he also remained on the Division Series roster announced Friday. Giants manager Bruce Bochy explained that Brown's versatility helped him earn a spot on the club.
Brown, who ranked second in the Pacific Coast League with 36 stolen bases for Triple-A Fresno this season, can pinch-run if necessary. Bochy expressed confidence in his ability to bunt, resulting from his experience as a leadoff batter. He also can serve as a defensive replacement.
Brown also inspired the Giants' confidence in the two games he played against San Diego during the regular season's final weekend, when the club's No. 1 selection in the 2010 First-Year Player Draft went 3-for-5.
"He found ways to get hits," Bochy said. "He is a grinder."