Updated

As magnetic and inspiring as Hunter Pence is, Brandon Crawford is glad he won't be mimicking Pence this time around.

After leaving Tuesday's game with tightness in his left side, Crawford assured Wednesday that he only expects to miss a few games and is optimistic he won't be placed on the disabled list like Pence.

"It feels pretty mild," Crawford said. "I've strained my oblique before in 2013 and this didn't feel like that. This one is a little more mild."

Crawford, who is having a breakout year at the plate, hitting .265/.324/.482 with 19 home runs and 75 RBI, all of which are career highs, said he could return to the Giants lineup as soon as Friday.

On the other hand, Pence, who was placed on the disabled list retroactive to Aug. 18 with a left oblique strain, won't be eligible to play for the Giants until at least next Wednesday, Sept. 3.

(h/t CSN Bay Area)