Why Kapler isn't surprised by backlash to Belt's odd bunt originally appeared on NBC Sports Bayarea

The Giants are attempting to secure the final Wild Card spot, sitting 5.5 games behind the San Diego Padres as the 2022 MLB season nears its end.

As a result, each loss is magnified, and Brandon Belt is drawing criticism for his decision to bunt in the 5-0 defeat to the Arizona Diamondbacks on Thursday at Oracle Park.

During the bottom of the seventh inning, down 5-0 with runners in scoring position, Belt opted to bunt despite having two strikes. The failed bunt went foul, ending the inning and an opportunity to chip away at the deficit.

Giants manager Gabe Kapler spoke about Belt's decision, saying he understood why many were critical about the bunt in that situation.

"No, I'm not surprised by it at all," Kapler told reporters before their game against the Colorado Rockies on Friday. "I understand it. Anytime you have the ability to make a case on one side or another, why it makes sense, why it doesn't make sense.

"Anytime that issue is even slightly polarizing, and particularly when it's coupled with a game that we didn't win, it can be something that people ask about."

RELATED: Brandon Belt explains odd two-out, two-strike bunt in Giants loss

The Giants are now hoping a successful road trip can put the controversy behind them and narrow San Diego's wild card lead.

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