San Francisco Giants: Omar Vizquel Brings More Than a Flashy Glove

When Omar Vizquel returned to the Giants clubhouse, it was with an attitude of humility. He spoke about how it's a different dynamic in the dugout now, and how he wasn't sure how he would fit in.

However, Vizquel hasn't missed a beat. He had three hits in his first game and drew three intentional walks in his second game. He's even shown that his knee brace won't stop him, stealing a base on Sunday. In the field, he's still the same Vizquel, putting on a defensive clinic, and making the tough plays look easy.

It has never been about the stats with Vizquel. He's going to do his job, whether it's making a play in the infield or laying down a bunt. There's a reason the Giants brought him back. His wisdom, not just about baseball but about life, is the thing Bruce Bochy says will anchor this team.

Vizquel's attitude, philosophy, and personality are will bring stability to a clubhouse full of rookies and new teammates. With an overhauled roster, the Giants looked to the guiding ways of Randy Winn, Rich Aurilia, Omar Vizquel, and Tyler Walker. All these players have been around, have seen their fair share of baseball superstars and flameouts, and know how to handle almost any situation. 

But if age brings wisdom, then Vizquel is the best person to learn from. Many players are competing into their 40s. Vizquel, at 41, is the oldest person on the Giants roster.

It seems only fitting that the youngest person, Emmanuel Burriss (23), is being groomed to take his place. Burriss has shown he has the speed and excitement to fit in at this level, and his bat isn't looking too shabby, either. Still, he has a lot to learn.

"The force is with you, young Skywalker, but you are not a Jedi yet. "

Other Giants Notes 

I haven't written about Barry Zito yet, but what I've seen is encouraging to me. As a former pitcher, I know that the steps he's taken are in the right direction.

He's locating his fastball better, the curveball is biting again, and IF the Giants scored when he pitched, he'd probably feel a lot better. A pitcher in his situation should still be able to make a mistake once in a while.

Tim Lincecum should be the Giants' representative on the All-Star team this year. Actually, so should Aaron Rowand. The decisions to keep Lincecum shut down all winter and Rowand's contract are being rewarded.