Embracing key pitch helps Hicks reach new high in K’s

SAN FRANCISCO -- Jordan Hicks didn’t record any strikeouts in his last start against the D-backs, but he more than made up for it when he returned to the mound to face the Pirates on Saturday night. Hicks racked up a career-high nine strikeouts over six-plus innings of one-run ball, but the Giants couldn’t reward his sensational effort in falling, 4-3, to the Pirates in 10 innings at Oracle Park. The Pirates seized a 4-1 lead after Bryan Reynolds and Ke’Bryan Hayes crushed back-to-back homers off lefty Taylor Rogers in the top of the 10th, but the Giants immediately pulled...