What we learned as Snell strikes out 12 in Giants' shutout win

A complete game, 12-strikeout performance by Blake Snell helped the San Francisco Giants shut out the Pittsburgh Pirates 7-0 on Tuesday night.

Snell allowed just four hits and one walk while striking out 12 batters in his first complete game of the season.

The Giants offense provided Snell with plenty of run support, scoring three runs in the first inning and adding four more in the fifth.

Mike Yastrzemski hit a two-run homer in the first inning, and Brandon Belt added a two-run double in the fifth.

The win was the Giants' fifth in a row and moved them into a tie for first place in the National League West.

The Pirates have now lost six straight games and are in last place in the NL Central.

Here are three things we learned from the Giants' win:

1. Snell is a legitimate ace. The left-hander has been one of the most consistent pitchers in baseball over the past few seasons, and he showed why on Tuesday night. He has a great fastball and changeup, and he can also throw a devastating curveball.
2. The Giants offense is starting to click. The Giants have been one of the most disappointing offensive teams in baseball this season, but they have shown signs of life in recent weeks. They have scored at least five runs in each of their last five games.
3. The Pirates are in trouble. The Pirates have now lost six straight games and are in last place in the NL Central. They have a lot of young talent, but they need to start winning games soon.

Conclusion

The Giants' win over the Pirates was a much-needed victory for a team that has been struggling offensively. Snell was brilliant on the mound, and the offense provided him with plenty of run support. The Giants are now in a tie for first place in the NL West, and they have a chance to make a run at the playoffs.