Patrick Bailey Hits First Career Home Run into Kayak in McCovey Cove on Bobblehead Day

On Saturday, April 20, 2024, San Francisco Giants catcher Patrick Bailey hit his first career home run into McCovey Cove at Oracle Park on his bobblehead day. Bailey's two-run homer in the fifth inning broke a 3-3 tie and helped the Giants beat the Arizona Diamondbacks 7-3.

The home run, which landed directly in a floating kayak, was the 165th splash hit at Oracle Park since it opened in 2000 and the 103rd by a Giants hitter. It was also the first splash hit by a switch-hitter since the Cubs' Robel García in 2019.

Bailey finished the game with four hits, including a double, and drove in three runs. He was just a triple shy of hitting for the cycle. Giants manager Bob Melvin praised Bailey's performance, saying it was "probably a day he'll never forget."

Why this matters: Bailey's historic home run and impressive offensive display on his bobblehead day showcased his power as the Giants' future franchise catcher. His performance also helped the Giants respond with a season-high 16 hits after a 17-1 loss to the Diamondbacks the previous day.

The Giants' bullpen pitched five scoreless innings of relief to secure the victory, with Ryan Walker (2-2) earning the win. Diamondbacks starter Zac Gallen (3-1) took the loss after giving up five runs in five innings, ending his streak of seven consecutive wins with a 1.32 ERA in 14 April starts. The Giants can clinch the series with a win on Sunday.

Key Takeaways

• Giants catcher Patrick Bailey hit his first career home run into McCovey Cove on his bobblehead day.
• Bailey's 2-run homer in the 5th inning broke a 3-3 tie, leading Giants to a 7-3 win.
• Bailey's home run was the 165th splash hit at Oracle Park and the 103rd by a Giants hitter.
• Bailey finished the game with 4 hits, a double, and 3 RBIs, just a triple shy of the cycle.
• Giants' bullpen pitched 5 scoreless innings to secure the win, with Ryan Walker earning the win.