Giants' All-Star Brandon Crawford could return to lineup this weekend

San Francisco Giants shortstop Brandon Crawford Sergio Estrada-USA TODAY Sports

Giants' All-Star shortstop Brandon Crawford could be activated from injury list this weekend

By Mike Santa Barbara | Last updated 8/3/22

At the start of August, the Los Angeles Dodgers have built a double-digit lead over the rest of the NL West, including the San Francisco Giants.

The Giants are seemingly out of the division race, but they're still alive in the hunt for an NL Wild Card spot.

While the Giants have lost seven of their last ten games entering play Wednesday, their lineup may soon receive a much-needed boost.

According to manager Gabe Kapler, there's a chance three-time All-Star shortstop Brandon Crawford could be activated from the injury list this weekend.

Brandon Crawford (knee) played two rehab assignments in a row, yesterday and today. Came out OK, but a bit of soreness. Saturday is possible for an activation, Kapler said.
— Danny Emerman (@DannyEmerman) August 3, 2022

Crawford had two successful starts for the Giants' Triple-A affiliate Sacramento with no reported issues, despite going 0-for-5 at the plate with a walk.

The 12-year major league veteran has been out of action with right knee inflammation. The Giants placed Crawford on the 10-day IL on July 16.

Before the injury, Crawford had five home runs and 33 RBI, slashing .215/.297/.332 in 72 games for the Giants.

The four-time Gold Glove winner was an All-Star in 2021, finishing the season batting .298/.373/.522 with 24 home runs and 90 RBI.

The Giants hope a healthy Crawford can help them gain some ground in the wildcard standings. Entering play Wednesday, the Giants were five games back of the Philadelphia Phillies (56-48) for the third and final Wild Card berth.

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