Tue Jul 08 03:50:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a news article summarizing the text:

**Giants Welcome Back “Heartbeat” Matt Chapman from IL Amidst Slump**

WEST SACRAMENTO – Hoping to reignite their faltering season, the San Francisco Giants activated third baseman Matt Chapman from the 10-day injured list on Saturday. Chapman, who has been sidelined for 23 games with a sprained right hand, immediately returned to the lineup, starting at third base and batting cleanup. Infielder Sergio Alcántara was designated for assignment to make room for Chapman.

Chapman’s return is timely for the Giants, who have struggled recently, losing 13 of their last 19 games and falling nine games behind the Los Angeles Dodgers in the NL West. Initially expected to be out until the All-Star break, Chapman pushed to return a week early. “I wanted to come back as fast as I could,” Chapman said.

Manager Bob Melvin emphasized Chapman’s leadership qualities. “From the minute he’s gotten here, he’s embraced the leadership role,” Melvin stated. “It’s huge to have him back. Not just the production part and what does on the field. It’s his presence in the dugout, on the field, in the clubhouse.”

Chapman, who was batting .243 with 12 home runs prior to his injury, hopes to provide a spark and solidify the team’s defense. He is also eager to play alongside Rafael Devers, potentially offering the designated hitter more protection in the lineup. “We’re one step closer to everybody being together and getting comfortable playing with each other and trying to really start playing the baseball that we expect to play,” Chapman said.

In other roster moves, the Giants optioned Mason Black and recalled Tristan Beck from Sacramento. Left-handed pitcher Erik Miller was placed on the 15-day injured list, prompting the team to select veteran Scott Alexander from Triple-A Sacramento for a second stint with the Giants. Alexander, who previously pitched for the Giants in 2022-23, rejoins the team to bolster the bullpen. Miller’s loss will be a blow to the Giants, as he has posted a 1.50 ERA over 36 appearances this season.

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