For the first time since signing with the Arizona Diamondbacks in free agency, Madison Bumgarner is returning to an Oracle Park filled with fans.

Bumgarner spent 11 years with the San Francisco Giants, helping the club win the World Series in 2010, 2012 and 2014.

"It's a special place to me," Bumgarner said. "I played there for a long time and did some pretty cool things there, so I'm excited to go back. Last year I played there, but there were no fans and it was cool to be back there, but a little bit strange at the same time without fans. I'm honestly looking forward to it."

The way the schedule worked out, Bumgarner will not pitch during the series in San Francisco. Instead, he started Sunday's series finale against the San Diego Padres.

"Honestly, if I was pitching, it would be fine," Bumgarner said. "But I'm glad I'm not. It would just be a lot to deal with it. I'm sure I'm going to pitch there quite a few times in the future, but I'm not upset that I'm not this time."