SAN FRANCISCO – On a team known for stellar pitching, bushy beards and quirky personalities, the unquestioned leader of the San Francisco Giants is their understated catcher, Buster Posey.

From his prowess behind the plate, shepherding the staff through its ups and downs, to the bat that delivered the National League batting title, Posey is the biggest reason why the Giants are back in the World Series for the second time in his three big league seasons.

“I’d hate to think where we would be without him,” manager Bruce Bochy said. “The numbers, they speak for themselves. But also his leadership on this club. We saw what life was without him last year. ... I don’t know a player that’s made a bigger impact on a club than what he has on our club. He’s just a tremendous talent. We’re lucky to have him.”