April 14, 2003

Former USF pitcher Jesse Foppert made his major league debut tonight pitching two hitless and scoreless innings as San Francisco beat Houston 4-2.

Foppert, who played first base and pitched for USF during the 2001 season, entered the game in the top of the seventh, with the Giants leading 4-1. He retired the side in order with Craig Biggio becoming his first major league strikeout. In the eighth, he retired the first two batters, including Brian Hunter via strikeout before walking Jeff Kent. He then closed it out retiring the next batter for the final out of the eighth.

Foppert was replaced by Giants' closer Worrell in the ninth, but was named "Player of the Game" by the Giants' TV crew. In addition, Foppert received a game ball and the lineup card in recognition of his debut.

What they're saying about Jesse Foppert's Major League debut:

"I was always impressed when I was with the Giants with the core of pitchers they have over there. Not just their stuff, but their makeup. Foppert looks like he's got good makeup. He's really smooth in his delivery and spotted his changeup and breaking ball well." - Jeff Kent, Houston Astros

"I think this kid's going to be something special. It was his first time in the big show, and he didn't get nervous at all. He went after hitters right there." - Benito Santiago, catcher, San Francisco Giants

Jesse Foppert On his ML debut: It felt good. I felt pretty comfortable. It feels good to pitch in front of my hometown and my family and friends. My dad was here tonight. I'm not sure about my mom.

On coming into his first ML game: I was pretty much ready after about five pitches. The adrenaline was pumping so hard.

On pitching for the Giants: I was just glad to get in there and help out the team with what they've been doing since the start of the season.