Justin Verlander's injury gives San Francisco Giants prospect Carson Whisenhunt a shot at coming to the majors, even if it's slim.

SAN FRANCISCO — Ace pitcher Logan Webb took the brunt of the punishment Wednesday as the Giants fell 8-4 to the Kansas City Royals to conclude a nine-game homestand.

Giants manager Bob Melvin said Justin Verlander was dealing with a pectoral muscle issue that affected his command and velocity in his start against the A’s on Sunday, though the club is optimistic th

San Francisco Giants manager Bob Melvin said that Justin Verlander was dealing with a little bit of a pectoral muscle issue during his start Sunday, but — like Verlander — he’s optimistic Verlander will make his next start.

Verlander (0-3) avoided another loss with help from Heliot Ramos, who drove in the first run in the first inning on a first-pitch home run off A’s starter Jeffrey Springs. Ramos also drove in the go-ahead run in the eighth on a groundball single to left against reliever Tyler Ferguson.

Giants pitcher Justin Verlander said he has been dealing with physical limitations after San Francisco's 3-2 win over the Athletics on Sunday.

Preview the May 18 matchup between the San Francisco Giants and Athletics with odds over/under, game spread, betting lines and more.