Giants hitters knock around Marlins 5-3

MIAMI - With plenty of rest and enough run support, All-Star Tim Hudson got his second half off to a winning start. Hudson pitched into the eighth inning after having eight days between starts, and the Giants beat the Miami Marlins 5-3 on Saturday night.

“He was sharp, I’m sure the added rest probably did benefit him,” Giants manager Bruce Bochy said.

Hudson (8-6) came into the game with just five runs of support in his previous five starts, but the Giants jumped out to a 5-1 lead in the fourth inning, which was enough for the 39-year old veteran. He allowed one run and eight hits in 7? innings and did not walk a batter.

“Obviously, this time of year, extra rest is usually welcomed,” Hudson said.

Hunter Pence drove in two runs and Pablo Sandoval had three hits for the Giants, who have won four of five. They are 54-43, the best record in the National League.

Giancarlo Stanton hit his National League-best 23rd home run for Miami, which has lost six straight. It was his second home run in two days after not hitting one for three weeks.

Marlins All-Star starter Henderson Alvarez (6-5) departed with a bruised left shin after being hit by a grounder by Joe Panik in the third. Alvarez threw out Panik at first before limping off. X-rays were negative.

Sergio Romo allowed a home run to Stanton to lead off the ninth and departed after allowing a two-out double to Marcell Ozuna. Jarrod Saltalamacchia hit an RBI single off Santiago Casilla to pull the Marlins within 5-3, but Adeiny Hechavarria lined out to end the game as Casilla picked up his fifth save in eight opportunities.

Giants first baseman Brandon Belt left the game in the third due to dizziness, but not before hitting an RBI double. Belt was struck by a ball in the face during batting practice when two balls were thrown at him at the same time.

“He seemed OK,” Bochy said. “Of course he had the big hit to get us going and then he started complaining of headaches, got a little nauseous, dizziness.”

Belt will be held out of Sunday’s game.