Posted By Jeff Fletcher on July 9, 2009 5:42 pm

John Bowker is up with the Giants today, and he’s starting in left field. Bowker said he’s had a new approach at the plate this year, evident by his 53 walks in 344 plate appearances, good for a .448 on-base percentage. Last year in the big leagues he had 19 walks in 350 plate appearances, a .300 on-base percentage.

“I think it’s just a pitch-by-pitch mentality,” Bowker said. “Just focus on every pitch.”

Well, that sounds simple. It probably also makes a difference that this year’s numbers are at Triple-A and last  year’s were in the majors. There’s a bit of difference in the quality of pitching.

Bowker came up to replace pitcher Ryan Sadowski, who isn’t needed till after the All-Star break. It remains to be seen whether Bowker stays after Sadowski (or another fifth starter) is needed again. Manager Bruce Bochy said Bowker will play everyday, sometimes at first and sometimes in the outfield. As long as he hits, he’ll stay here.