SAN FRANCISCO — Alec Burleson hit a home run into the Bay, but the San Francisco Giants walked off the St. Louis Cardinals in extra innings Monday in a vital game for St. Louis' playoff push. The Giants grabbed an early lead against Cardinals starter Michael McGreevy before St. Louis clawed back to force extras.
McGreevy was pressured early as San Francisco jumped in front. St. Louis answered late, highlighted by Burleson's splash hit into McCovey Cove beyond the right-field wall. The contest remained tied through nine innings before the Giants delivered the walk-off in extras to secure the opener.
The game illustrated the tight margins facing St. Louis on the road. Forced to chase after the early deficit, the Cardinals relied on power to get back level, with Burleson's homer providing the spark. San Francisco countered by extending the game and capitalizing late, denying St. Louis the chance to steal momentum.
St. Louis continues its series in San Francisco with opportunities to reset behind its rotation and generate more consistent offense. The Giants take early control of the set with the extra-inning victory as both clubs navigate the closing weeks of the regular season.