Duffy's big hit accompanies ascent in order

SEATTLE -- The Giants' 7-0 Interleague victory Thursday over the Seattle Mariners at Safeco Field marked one of those rare nights when literally everybody contributed. Each starting batter collected a hit, drove in a run or scored.

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"It was nice to get a good offensive game," manager Bruce Bochy said. "This is a tough park to hit in."

Fittingly enough, the most significant deed was performed by Matt Duffy, who was elevated by Bochy in the batting order to capitalize on his burgeoning hitting. Duffy's two-run triple off Seattle reliever Tom Wilhelmsen hiked the Giants' lead to 5-0 and sparked a four-run eighth inning.

Following through on intentions he announced after Wednesday's 2-0 loss to Seattle, Bochy installed Duffy in the No. 5 spot after he had batted seventh or eighth in 31 of 44 starts. But the rookie third baseman rarely resembled a bottom-of-the-order hitter. He hit .389 (7-for-18) in the previous six games to lift his average to .294.

Duffy's big hit increased his RBI total to 31, the Giants' third-highest total -- though he has accumulated the seventh-most at-bats.

"Wherever I'm at, I don't really change my approach," Duffy said. However, he did admit that he's relishing the possibilities resulting from a higher offensive profile. "I feel like things happen in the middle of the order," he said.

Likewise, Bochy's eager to see what production Duffy can bring.

"He's such a competitor up there. That's what you love about him," Bochy said.