Giants flamethrower Strickland raises the heat in DC

At points of Hunter Strickland’s eight-year slog through the Minor Leagues, the Giants pitcher probably dreamed of moments like this. Strickland was called upon to protect a two-run lead in the sixth inning of Game 1 of the National League Division Series against the Nationals on Friday, with the bases loaded and one of the game’s best hitters at the plate.