Giants Rookie Catcher Susac Shines in MLB Debut

Daniel Susac goes 3-for-3 with a walk in first start as Giants beat Mets 7-2

Apr. 3, 2026 at 4:36am by Ben Kaplan

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A fractured, multi-perspective painting depicting a baseball game, with sharp, overlapping geometric planes in vibrant colors like deep blue, bright orange, and emerald green, conveying the dynamic action and energy of the sport.A cubist interpretation of rookie catcher Daniel Susac's standout performance in his MLB debut, capturing the energy and movement of the game through fragmented geometric shapes and bold colors.San Francisco Today

In his first major league start, San Francisco Giants rookie catcher Daniel Susac had a standout performance, going 3-for-3 with a walk as the Giants defeated the New York Mets 7-2 at Oracle Park. Susac, a 24-year-old from Roseville, also had a successful ABS challenge behind the plate in the Giants' home opener.

Why it matters

Susac's strong debut provides a boost to the Giants' catching depth, as he profiles as an offensive-minded complement to the team's primary catcher Patrick Bailey, who is known for his elite defense. Susac's performance could earn him more playing time moving forward.

The details

Susac, who the Giants acquired in the Rule 5 draft, showed off his hitting ability by recording three hits and a walk in his first MLB start. He also had the only successful ABS challenge of the night, overturning a ball call to a strikeout. The Giants' offense came alive, scoring three runs in the first inning and adding four more later in the game. Rookie infielder Casey Schmitt also had a strong night at the plate and in the field, making a key leaping catch and turning a double play.

  • Daniel Susac made his first MLB start on Thursday, April 2, 2026.
  • The Giants defeated the Mets 7-2 in their home opener at Oracle Park.

The players

Daniel Susac

A 24-year-old rookie catcher for the San Francisco Giants, acquired in the Rule 5 draft, who had a standout performance in his first MLB start.

Patrick Bailey

The Giants' primary catcher, known for his elite defensive skills, who could see reduced playing time if Susac continues to produce offensively.

Tony Vitello

The Giants' manager, who earned his first career MLB home win in the victory over the Mets.

Casey Schmitt

A Giants rookie infielder who had a strong game at the plate and in the field, making a key leaping catch and turning a double play.

Ryan Walker

A Giants reliever who recorded the save in the victory, despite the final score being 7-2.

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What they’re saying

“With a sizable group of friends and family rooting him on Thursday at Oracle Park, Daniel Susac demonstrated exactly why the San Francisco Giants maneuvered to get the catcher in the Rule-5 draft.”

— Susan Slusser, Author

What’s next

The Giants will look to build on Susac's strong debut as they continue their homestand against the Mets. It remains to be seen if Susac's performance will earn him more playing time moving forward, potentially cutting into Patrick Bailey's starts behind the plate.

The takeaway

Susac's impressive first MLB start showcases the Giants' depth at catcher, as the team now has two talented options to choose from behind the plate. This competition could push both players to new heights and provide a boost to the Giants' offense and defense throughout the season.