San Francisco Giants vs. Arizona Diamondbacks: Series Preview #1

Jeremy Hellickson should have a bounce back year pitching in the N.L. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports

Game 3: April 8th

Pitching Matchup: TBD vs. RHP Jeremy Hellickson

Game Notes: Jeremy Hellickson will be making his first start as an Arizona Diamondback in the regular season, and once again the story will be him, because lets be honest: if the Diamondbacks have any hopes of competing this year, the starters are going to have to perform.

Hellickson who was acquired from the Rays last November, was limited to 13 starts in 2014 after elbow surgery.

The Diamondbacks acquired him because they believe he regain his 2011-12 form when he won 23 games and posted era’s of 2.95 and 3.10.

Remember in 2011 Hellickson won the Rookie of the Year award in the American League, and everybody thought he would develop into an ace.

Moving over to the National League should help Hellickson. He did give up eight home runs last season, which could be a problem at Chase Field. He is also a fly ball pitcher which could be another issue.

Hellickson also has a tendency to run up his pitch count really quick, which could annoy fans. I’m excited to see what he can do with this team now that he is out of the American League East. He has never faced the Giants.