Poll
Who should start in the Giants' postseason pitching rotation?
Your vote has been counted, thank you for voting.
When you think of players who helped the Giants win the National League West with 10 days to spare, you have to start with MVP candidate Buster Posey.
Six months ago, the question hanging over Posey was not how well he would play, but how much the catcher would play coming back from a season-ending injury.
Just as well, where would the Giants be without center fielder Angel Pagan? Where would they be without infielder Marco Scutaro after picking him up at the trading deadline?
But mostly, where would the Giants be without Barry Zito?
With most of the starting rotation struggling at one point this season, Zito is concluding his best year since signing a seven-year, $120 million contract with the Giants in 2007.
Once a lightning rod targeted by Giants fans, Zito finally has the support and confidence of Giants fans. He has won 13 games – his most in any season as a Giant – and San Francisco has won his past nine starts.
After being left off the 2010 playoff roster and handling it with class, Zito deserves a starting spot in the 2012 postseason rotation.
Ryan Vogelsong, who has no postseason experience, has pitched better lately after a rough past month. But he would be better suited coming out of the bullpen in October.
Ignore Zito's 4-3 postseason record in Oakland. He simply gives the Giants a better chance to win.
And mostly, he deserves it.
What to watch
NFL, Green Bay at Seattle, 5:30 p.m., ESPN: A Seahawks victory would move Seattle into a tie with the 49ers for second place behind the Cardinals in the NFC West.
Today's poll
Who should start in the Giants' postseason pitching rotation?
• Ryan Vogelsong
• Barry Zito
Vote above or leave your comments in the comments field; or go to www.sacbee.com/sports
Weekend poll results
Who will finish with more wins this season?
• A's: 19%
• Giants: 81%
Total votes: 177
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• Read more articles by Victor Contreras
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