Mets’ Sean Manaea Emerges As Highest Paid Reliever With $25 Million Deal Amid Role Shift The New York Mets have embraced a modern pitching strategy, and Sean Manaea is now at the heart of that approach. His $25 million contract has positioned him as the highest-paid reliever in Major League Baseball, a testament to his late-career transformation and the league’s increasing focus on high-leverage bullpen arms. Manaea’s new role reflects both his personal development and the evolving demands of the game. Entering the 2026 season, Manaea is coming off one of his most effective stretches, a result of adjustments made during his time with the Mets. Originally signed as rotational depth, the left-handed pitcher found new success when deployed in shorter, more aggressive outings. The Mets capitalized on his flexibility, using him in hybrid roles that blurred the lines between starter and reliever. This adaptability has become a key factor in his value. In 2025, Manaea pitched over 140 innings while maintaining a sub-3.50 ERA. His strikeout rate exceeded 9.5 per nine innings, driven by improved command of his sweeper and elevated fastball. His ability to miss bats grew, while his walk rate remained steady. Opposing hitters struggled to square up his pitches, as evidenced by a WHIP around 1.20 and strong hard-hit suppression metrics. These numbers highlight his effectiveness in critical situations. His role has also shifted significantly. No longer confined to the rotation, Manaea was frequently used in high-leverage scenarios, including middle-inning appearances against the top of opposing lineups. This increased usage elevated his overall value, particularly for a Mets team that faced bullpen inconsistency throughout the season.#new_york_mets #san_diego_padres #major_league_baseball #san_francisco_giants #sean_manea
SF Giants Have Hamstrung Themselves on the Right Side of the Infield The San Francisco Giants face a challenging situation on the right side of their infield, where their current configuration appears less than ideal. Second baseman Luis Arraez, who signed with the team on the promise of playing second base, is set to start there, despite the presence of a more statistically suited candidate. The decision has sparked questions about how the Giants arrived at this arrangement and whether it will hold up over the course of the season. Arraez’s signing was contingent on the Giants guaranteeing him an opportunity to play second base, a commitment that other teams interested in him could not provide. This promise was a key factor in his decision to join the Giants. While the team may feel obligated to honor that commitment, the arrangement has led to a less-than-optimal setup. Arraez, who has a history of defensive struggles, has shown promise in limited appearances but faces the challenge of adapting to a position he hasn’t regularly played in recent years. Meanwhile, Schmitt, who has demonstrated better speed and arm strength, has been relegated to first base. His struggles with ground balls in the dirt during the season’s opening game highlight the difficulties of transitioning to a new position. Schmitt’s limited experience at first base, which he only began playing last season, may contribute to his early struggles. The Giants’ infield configuration is further complicated by the potential return of players like Devers and Bryce Eldridge. Devers, who is expected to get healthy, could provide an alternative at first base, while Eldridge’s promotion to the majors may increase his playing time at the position.#bryce_eldridge #san_francisco_giants #luis_arraez #schmitt #devers
Rafael Devers Limited by Hamstring Tightness Early in 2026 The San Francisco Giants are taking a cautious approach with three-time All-Star Rafael Devers as he continues to recover from lingering left hamstring tightness. The team has opted to limit Devers to designated hitter duties for the start of the 2026 season, avoiding potential strain on his injured muscle. Devers, who missed two weeks of Spring Training due to the issue, has not yet played first base since returning to the lineup. Manager Tony Vitello emphasized that while Devers could potentially play the field if needed, the Giants prefer to prioritize his long-term health over short-term contributions. Devers received another start at designated hitter against the Yankees on Friday, allowing Casey Schmitt to occupy first base for the second consecutive game. Vitello noted that the decision to keep Devers out of the infield is a calculated one, balancing the need for immediate performance with the risk of further injury. “If he had to play today, he definitely could,” Vitello said. “But for us, it’s about communicating with the medical staff and making the best move for 162 games.” The manager also mentioned that Devers would continue working with infield coach Ron Washington on ground balls and fielding drills, though the team remains focused on a sustainable plan for the season. Jerar Encarnacion is expected to serve as a backup option at first base while Devers recovers, but Vitello expressed confidence in Schmitt’s defensive readiness for the position. Schmitt, a natural third baseman, has limited experience at first base, having appeared in just 19 Major League games at the position.#san_francisco_giants #tony_vitello #luis_arraez #casey_schmitt #rafael_devers
Rafael Devers is set to begin the 2026 season as the San Francisco Giants' designated hitter, marking his second consecutive game in the role. The move comes after the Giants opted to place him in the DH spot against the New York Yankees on Friday, with Casey Schmitt starting at first base. Devers, who previously played first base during the 2025 season before being traded to San Francisco, is managing a minor hamstring issue, though Giants manager Tony Vitello indicated the team is cautious about rushing him back to the field. The decision to start Devers at DH aligns with his role in the Giants' lineup, where he will bat third. Vitello’s comments, shared via NBC Sports Bay Area’s Alex Pavlovic, highlighted the team’s preference to prioritize his health over immediate defensive flexibility. While Devers could potentially play first base if needed, the Giants have chosen to avoid overexerting him during his recovery. Devers’ defensive positioning has been a topic of discussion in recent seasons. Despite his preference for third base, he accepted a move to DH in 2025 after the Red Sox signed Alex Bregman to occupy the hot corner. During the season, Devers resisted shifting to first base following Triston Casas’ knee injury, a stance that led to a significant trade in June. The Red Sox sent Devers to the Giants in exchange for Kyle Harrison, Jordan Hicks, James Tibbs III, and Jose Bello. Bello remains the only player from that deal still with the Red Sox, though the team’s playoff berth and the arrival of Roman Anthony have somewhat alleviated fan disappointment. Devers’ performance with the Giants has been modest, posting a .236/.347/.460 slash line in 90 games after the trade.#new_york_yankees #san_francisco_giants #tony_vitello #rafael_devers #casey_schmitt
New York Yankees Set to Face San Francisco Giants in High-Stakes Game The New York Yankees return to action today for the second contest of their three-game series against the San Francisco Giants at Oracle Park. The matchup features Yankees rookie Cam Schlittler on the mound against veteran left-hander Robbie Ray, as the team aims to build on their dominant Opening Day victory. Schlittler, who has been working his way into form during spring training, will take the hill against a Giants lineup that includes several power threats. Schlittler, still in his early stages as a major league pitcher, is stepping into a critical role after Gerrit Cole and Carlos Rodón remain sidelined. The 24-year-old has shown promise in three spring starts, allowing just one run across 9.2 innings. This assignment marks a significant leap for Schlittler, who was in Somerset, New Jersey, during the same period last year. His challenge will be to navigate a Giants lineup that includes multiple left-handed hitters, though the Yankees have historically performed well against southpaws. Robbie Ray, the Giants’ starting pitcher, is coming off a strong 2025 season, during which he posted a 3.65 ERA over 182.1 innings. Known for his high-strikeout, high-walk approach, Ray’s effectiveness hinges on his command and ability to keep hitters off balance. His performance will be closely watched, particularly given the Yankees’ tendency to hit left-handed pitchers. The Giants’ lineup includes Paul Goldschmidt, the team’s leadoff hitter, who is expected to challenge Schlittler early in the game. The Yankees’ lineup also features Aaron Judge, who seeks to rebound from a four-strikeout performance in the previous game. Cody Bellinger, the team’s best left-on-left hitter, bats third, with Giancarlo Stanton in the cleanup spot.#new_york_yankees #san_francisco_giants #oracle_park #cam_schlittler #robbie_ray
Fantasy Baseball Lineup Guide for Yankees-Giants Clash Wednesday’s MLB matchup between the San Francisco Giants and New York Yankees kicks off the 2026 season, offering fantasy managers critical insights into starting pitching and key hitters. San Francisco’s Logan Webb is set to start at home, while the Yankees’ Max Fried takes the mound in the series opener. Both pitchers will face unique challenges based on their spring performances and the ballpark’s impact. Webb, the Giants’ Opening Day starter, made his final Cactus League appearance last Thursday, allowing six earned runs over 4⅓ innings with eight hits, three strikeouts, and one walk. Despite the rough outing, his performance in the World Baseball Classic (WBC) suggests he can rebound. In the tournament, Webb pitched 8⅔ innings, yielding just one run and striking out 11 batters. Fantasy managers should expect him to lean into his WBC form, especially since Oracle Park is known for suppressing right-handed power but favoring batting averages. The Giants’ designated hitter, Jerar Encarnacion, capitalizes on this dynamic. His .294/.288/.471 line secured him a regular role, while top prospect Bryce Eldridge was sent to Triple-A. Encarnacion’s platoon advantage against right-handed pitchers like Fried makes him a valuable streamer. Fried, the Yankees’ Opening Day starter, also faced challenges in his final spring game, walking four batters with just two strikeouts over five innings. However, his pitch count of 82 suggests he’ll be ready to go deep into the game. The lefty will face six right-handed hitters, including Rafael Devers, Luis Arraez, and Jung Hoo Lee, which could limit his effectiveness. Yet, his familiarity with Oracle Park from his time with the Colorado Rockies may help him adjust.#new_york_yankees #san_francisco_giants #jerar_encarnacion #max_fried #logan_webb
Giants Get Notable Luis Arraez Update Ahead of Yankees opener The San Francisco Giants are set to open their season tonight against the New York Yankees, with manager Tony Vitello finalizing his lineup and determining the best role for key players. One of the most discussed topics among fans has been the placement of infielder Luis Arraez in the batting order. Vitello has provided clarity on the matter, revealing a flexible approach that could see Arraez batting leadoff on some days and deeper in the lineup on others. Vitello described Arraez as a unique player whose versatility could be leveraged depending on the team’s offensive needs. According to John Shea of the San Francisco Standard, the manager emphasized that Arraez’s ability to adapt to different situations makes him a valuable asset. This strategy was put to the test earlier this week when Arraez batted leadoff in an exhibition game at Oracle Park against the Sultanes de Monterrey. Tonight’s opener against the Yankees will serve as the first real opportunity to see how Vitello intends to use him. The decision hinges on performance. If Arraez is hitting first and the offense is producing runs, there’s no need to adjust. However, if he’s struggling to drive in runs or the Giants are leaving runners on base, moving him into the heart of the lineup could maximize his contact skills. For a player who rarely gives up an at-bat, this flexibility offers a strategic advantage. Arraez’s approach to hitting sets him apart from most in the Giants’ lineup. With three batting titles to his name, he has established himself as a contact hitter who avoids chasing pitches and minimizes strikeouts. This contrasts with the team’s reliance on power hitters who often swing for the fences.#new_york_yankees #san_francisco_giants #tony_vitello #luis_arraez #john_shea
Giants Batting Order Experiments Hint at a Long-Term Plan The San Francisco Giants signed Luis Arráez to provide the team with a contact hitter, a high on-base percentage and likely a leadoff role in the batting order. However, the arrangement remains tentative, as Arráez has not yet returned from the World Baseball Classic. He and Team Venezuela advanced to the championship game against Team USA, and his position in the lineup may shift once he rejoins the team. The Giants have already tested different configurations while Arráez was away, and his new hitting coach has suggested that his role in the order might differ from initial expectations. Earlier this spring, hitting coach Hunter Mense told NBC Sports Bay Area that while Arráez is a good fit for the leadoff spot, he also sees the player as a run-producer capable of hitting later in the order. “I believe that his best attribute is being able to drive in runs,” Mense said. “He gets a lot of hits and being able to score guys from third base with two outs or score guys from second base with two outs oftentimes requires a hit. I just want him in those situations.” Despite these possibilities, Arráez’s best fit still appears to be the leadoff position, as the Giants’ lineup requires table-setters to set the table for the power-hitting core. Over the past few seasons, the team has built a stable core around third baseman Matt Chapman, shortstop Willy Adames and first baseman Rafael Devers. Chapman, who signed a long-term deal before Buster Posey became president of baseball operations, has been a consistent presence. Adames made history in 2025 by hitting 30 home runs in a season, the first Giants player to do so in over two decades. Devers, who split time between Boston and San Francisco last season, hit 35 home runs overall.#san_francisco_giants #luis_arrez #hunter_mense #matt_chapman #willy_adames
Tony Vitello Discusses Luis Arraez's Role in SF Giants Lineup The San Francisco Giants' decision to sign Luis Arraez as their second baseman has sparked discussions among fans about his optimal batting position in the lineup. Manager Tony Vitello recently shared his strategy for integrating the player into the team's offensive plan. Fan debates have centered on whether Arraez should open the batting order or occupy a middle spot. Vitello emphasized that Arraez's unique skill set allows flexibility, stating he plans to use the second baseman in both leadoff and middle-of-the-order roles depending on game situations. This approach was highlighted when Arraez batted leadoff for the Giants in an exhibition game against the Sultanes de Monterrey at Oracle Park. The move is significant as the team prepares for Opening Night against the New York Yankees, fine-tuning their lineup for the season. Vitello's willingness to adjust Arraez's position reflects the team's focus on maximizing his impact. If the Giants start the season with Arraez leading off and the offense performs strongly, he may remain in that spot. However, if the team struggles to generate runs with runners on base, they may shift him to a higher RBI position, such as No. 3 or No. 5, to capitalize on his contact-oriented approach. Arraez's ability to make consistent contact without striking out aligns with the Giants' long-standing need for a reliable bat in critical situations. The team has historically relied on power hitters who often strike out, making Arraez a valuable addition. His presence provides a contrast to the lineup's power-heavy players, offering a more disciplined approach at the plate. The Giants have experimented with similar strategies in the past, such as using Jung Hoo Lee in the No. 3 spot during the 2025 season.#new_york_yankees #san_francisco_giants #oracle_park #tony_vitello #luis_arraez
Yankees officially sign 212-HR outfielder for Opening Day The New York Yankees have finalized a deal to add Randal Grichuk to their roster for the 2025 season, securing his place on the active squad for the team’s season-opening game against the San Francisco Giants. The 34-year-old outfielder, who was previously signed as a non-roster invite for Spring Training, has now been placed on a major league contract worth $2.5 million. The move was anticipated but now officially confirmed, ensuring Grichuk will be available for the Opening Day matchup. Grichuk’s signing is viewed as a strategic addition for the Yankees, who have evaluated his performance during Spring Training and believe he can contribute meaningfully. His ability to hit against left-handed pitchers stands out, particularly on a team with a strong lineup that often faces right-handed starters. Over his career, Grichuk has posted an .819 OPS against left-handed hurlers, a skill that could provide value in specific matchups. The outfielder has a storied career spanning multiple teams, including stints with the St. Louis Cardinals, Toronto Blue Jays, Colorado Rockies, Los Angeles Angels, Arizona Diamondbacks, and Kansas City Royals. He split the 2025 season between the Diamondbacks and Royals, posting a .228 batting average with nine home runs in 113 games. Despite his age, Grichuk remains a consistent hitter, having amassed 212 career home runs. One notable aspect of his career is his draft history. In the 2009 MLB Draft, the Los Angeles Angels selected him with the 24th overall pick, just one spot ahead of future star Mike Trout, who was taken at 25. This early recognition of his talent highlights his potential as a standout player.#new_york_yankees #san_francisco_giants #st_louis_cardinals #randal_grichuk #los_angeles_angels
MLB Schedule for March 25: Games, Times, and Viewing Options The Major League Baseball schedule for March 25 features one game, set for 8:05 p.m. Eastern Time. The New York Yankees will face the San Francisco Giants at Oracle Park. The broadcast will be available on Netflix, providing fans with a platform to watch the matchup. For those seeking additional coverage, the full schedule for the day can be accessed through a sortable template, allowing users to filter by team or division. This tool offers a convenient way to track all games without manually sifting through extensive data. To stay updated on the results of the March 25 games, fans can visit usatoday.com for real-time scores and outcomes. The website also provides access to the previous day’s results, ensuring comprehensive coverage of all matchups. The information presented in this article is sourced from a template reviewed by a USA TODAY Sports editor. While the content is accurate as of the publication date, viewers are advised to verify details if uncertainties arise. The article includes disclaimers regarding gambling, emphasizing that all forms of betting carry financial risks and that users should adhere to local laws. Gannett’s partnership with sports betting operators includes potential revenue from audience referrals, though the newsroom maintains editorial independence. The article also highlights resources for individuals or others affected by gambling issues, including helpline numbers for support. All times listed are in Eastern Time, and the schedule is accurate as of March 25, 2026, at 5:39 a.m. Fans are encouraged to check the latest updates for any last-minute changes or additional games.#netflix #new_york_yankees #san_francisco_giants #oracle_park #usatoday_com
Yankees Optimistic About Spring Training, Gerrit Cole's Tommy John Recovery New York Yankees star Gerrit Cole has expressed optimism about his recovery from Tommy John surgery, as he continues to make progress during spring training. The right-handed pitcher, who has been sidelined since undergoing the procedure last year, took another significant step in his rehabilitation with a dominant performance against the Chicago Cubs on Tuesday. Cole’s outing marked his second appearance of the spring and signaled that he is on track to return to the Yankees’ rotation within two months. Cole, who has been working closely with the team’s medical staff, showcased his pre-injury form during the game. He threw a six-batter inning, striking out three of the first four batters he faced without issuing a walk. His fastball reached speeds of 96 to 98 mph, with 11 pitches exceeding 96 mph. Despite allowing a 416-foot home run to All-Star third baseman Alex Bregman, Cole remained confident in his performance. “That was a good pitch,” he said, “but a better swing. So it’s the way it goes with good players sometimes.” The Yankees’ spring training camp has been a source of excitement for the team, with Cole’s recovery progress and the overall depth of the roster contributing to a positive atmosphere. Manager Aaron Boone highlighted the team’s strong start, noting that the competition for roster spots has been fierce. “I feel like we’re going to have competition brewing for opportunities throughout the year because of our depth,” Boone said. “And hopefully that remains with good health and good performance.” Cole’s journey back to full strength has been marked by patience and dedication. After a prolonged layoff since the 2024 World Series, he has embraced the opportunity to reconnect with the game’s intensity.#yankees #alex_bregman #san_francisco_giants #aaron_boone #gerrit_cole
Yankees Launch Netflix-Exclusive Opening Day Broadcast For over a century, the New York Yankees have transcended their role as a baseball team, becoming a cultural icon that permeates entertainment, media, and public consciousness. Their legacy as both a symbol of athletic excellence and a recurring punchline in pop culture has solidified their place in the American imagination. As the franchise prepares to debut a groundbreaking broadcast on Wednesday, March 25, the Yankees’ collaboration with Netflix marks a new chapter in their storied history. The game against the San Francisco Giants at Oracle Park will be the first Major League Baseball Opening Day broadcast streamed exclusively on the streaming platform, blending sports and entertainment in a way that reflects the team’s long-standing dual identity. The Yankees’ integration into popular culture has been both deliberate and organic. From the 1980s sitcom Seinfeld, where Jason Alexander’s George Costanza was humorously employed as a fictional Yankees assistant, to the iconic portrayal of the team in Damn Yankees, the franchise has consistently found ways to captivate audiences beyond the ballpark. Legendary players like Derek Jeter, Billy Martin, and Mickey Mantle have also made their mark in television, with Jeter hosting Saturday Night Live and Mantle’s persona appearing in Catch Me If You Can. Even non-athletes have embraced the Yankees’ cultural weight, as seen in Jay-Z’s boast about the team’s iconic status and Paul Simon’s nostalgic longing for Joe DiMaggio. This cultural resonance has only deepened in recent decades. Aaron Judge, the current star player, has become a household name beyond baseball, appearing in late-night sketches, voice roles in PAW Patrol, and even the cover of MLB The Show.#netflix #aaron_judge #yankees #san_francisco_giants #oracle_park
Ex-Giants Fan Favorite Wilmer Flores Joins Toros De Tijuana in Mexican League Wilmer Flores, a beloved figure for San Francisco Giants fans, has secured a new opportunity in his baseball career after his contract with the Giants was not renewed this offseason. The 34-year-old infielder is set to join the Toros De Tijuana of the Mexican Baseball League, as confirmed by the team’s announcement on social media. The move marks a new chapter for Flores, who has spent the majority of his MLB career with the Giants and has also played for the New York Mets and Arizona Diamondbacks. The Toros De Tijuana released a statement welcoming Flores, highlighting his Major League experience, consistent batting performance, and defensive skills. The message, translated from Spanish, read: “With a solid track record in the major leagues, a timely bat and defensive reliability, Wilmer Flores arrives at Toros de Tijuana. Welcome Wilmer, see you soon at Toros Mobil Park!” The team’s social media post included a celebratory emoji and hashtags, emphasizing the significance of Flores’ return to Mexico. Over six seasons with the Giants, Flores established himself as a reliable offensive contributor, posting a .249 batting average with a .321 on-base percentage and .426 slugging percentage across 667 games. His career totals include 92 home runs and 313 RBIs. The Venezuela native was particularly valuable as a pinch hitter in high-pressure situations, a role that showcased his ability to deliver in critical moments. Despite the end of his Giants tenure, Flores expressed his determination to continue playing at the highest level. During an interview on MLB Network’s “Hot Stove” show earlier this offseason, he stated, “My hope is to keep playing.#san_francisco_giants #wilmer_flores #toros_de_tijuana #mexican_baseball_league #mlb_network
Wilmer Flores Joins Mexican League After MLB Free Agency Stint Wilmer Flores, an infielder who played for the San Francisco Giants until last season, has signed with the Toros de Tijuana of the Mexican Professional Baseball League, marking his move to the Mexican stage after failing to secure a Major League contract. The decision comes as Flores, who had hoped to remain in the MLB, now seeks new opportunities in the Mexican league. The news was reported by "Around the Foghorn," a San Francisco-based outlet, which highlighted Flores’ journey through the majors. The infielder, who debuted with the New York Mets in 2013, spent time with the Arizona Diamondbacks before joining the Giants in 2020. Over his MLB career, Flores played in 1,337 games, posting a batting average of .259, 169 home runs, 603 RBIs, 518 runs scored, and 6 stolen bases. Flores became a fan favorite during his time with the Giants, earning the team’s "Willie Mac Award" in 2022, one of its highest honors. The outlet noted his leadership in the clubhouse and his ability to perform under pressure, particularly against left-handed pitchers. His 2023 season was his best in recent years, with a .284 batting average, 23 home runs, 60 RBIs, and 51 runs scored in 126 games. However, his 2024 season was marred by a knee injury that required surgery, and he finished the year with a .241 average, 16 home runs, 71 RBIs, and 44 runs scored in 125 games. The Giants’ final regular-season game saw Flores receive a heartfelt farewell from fans, as his contract was set to expire. With the team already stocked with first basemen and designated hitters, including Rafael Devers and Bryce Elder, Flores’ role was limited to those positions.#san_francisco_giants #wilmer_flores #toros_de_tijuana #mexican_professional_baseball_league #around_the_foghorn
Wilmer Flores Joins Mexican League for 2026 After Giants Departure Wilmer Flores, a beloved figure among San Francisco Giants fans, has secured a new opportunity in the Mexican League for the 2026 season. Despite hopes of rejoining the major leagues, the veteran infielder has opted to join the Toros de Tijuana, as confirmed by the team’s official announcement. Flores, who spent six of his 13 professional seasons with the Giants, will now continue his career in Mexico after his contract with the Giants expired. The 34-year-old infielder made his major league debut with the New York Mets in 2013 and became a key contributor for the Giants, known for his clutch hitting and ability to provide leverage against left-handed pitching. His best season came in 2023, when he posted an .863 OPS, hit 23 home runs, and drove in 60 runs in 454 plate appearances. However, a recurring knee injury limited his effectiveness in 2024, leading to a season-ending procedure. Flores returned to the Giants in 2025 after accepting a mutual option, but his role on the roster was diminished. He finished the season with a .686 OPS, 16 home runs, and 71 RBI in 463 plate appearances. His contributions were recognized by the fanbase, who gave him a heartfelt send-off in the final game of the season. With the Giants already set to cover first base and designated hitter positions through 2025, Flores’ departure was expected. The Giants’ depth at those roles includes players like Rafael Devers and Bryce Eldridge, though Eldridge did not make the final roster. The team remains optimistic about his potential to contribute this season, while relying on Jerar Encarnación as the primary DH. Meanwhile, Flores’ move to the Mexican League marks a new chapter in his career, joining a league that features several former major leaguers.#bryce_eldridge #san_francisco_giants #wilmer_flores #toros_de_tijuana #norte_division
Giants Excluding Bryce Eldridge from Opening Day Roster The San Francisco Giants have optioned outfielder Bryce Eldridge to Triple-A Sacramento, according to Evan Webeck of the California Post. The 21-year-old, who had been in contention to open the season as the team's primary designated hitter, will now report to the minor league affiliate. Eldridge's performance in the Cactus League, where he posted an .830 OPS with six RBI and eight runs scored across 19 games, did not secure his place on the Opening Day roster. Despite his strong showing, 19 of his 40 at-bats resulted in strikeouts, raising concerns about his plate discipline. The Giants' decision to send him to Triple-A is intended to help him refine his approach at the plate while gaining regular playing time at first base. With Eldridge out of the picture, Jerar Encarnacion is expected to take over as the team's designated hitter for the 2024 season. Eldridge's exclusion highlights the challenges of balancing offensive production with defensive reliability in a competitive lineup. While his power potential and speed were praised during spring training, the high strikeout rate has prompted management to prioritize development over immediate contribution. The move also reflects the Giants' strategy to maintain depth in their minor league system while ensuring their major league roster remains competitive. Encarnacion, a veteran with experience in the majors, is likely to fill the DH role, providing a more consistent presence at the plate. The Giants will now focus on integrating younger players into the lineup while managing the transition of key roles. This adjustment underscores the ongoing challenges of balancing short-term performance with long-term growth in professional baseball.#bryce_eldridge #san_francisco_giants #evan_webeck #california_post #jerar_encarnacion
Bryce Eldridge Optioned to Triple-A in Latest Roster Cuts The San Francisco Giants have optioned top prospect Bryce Eldridge to Triple-A Sacramento in the latest round of spring training cuts, according to Maria Guardado’s social media report. The move joins Tyler Fitzgerald and Grant McCray on the list of players sent down, signaling the team’s finalization of its 2025 roster. The decision underscores a focus on depth and right-handed power, as the Giants prepare for a season featuring a mix of left-handed starting pitchers. Eldridge, who leads the team in plate appearances (49) during the Cactus League season with a .450 slugging percentage, was sent down despite his offensive potential. However, his .225 batting average and 19 strikeouts—nearly double the team’s total—raised concerns. His recent performance, including a 3-for-18 slump with just one extra-base hit, highlighted the gap between his power numbers and batting average. The Giants, prioritizing batting average over raw power in their evaluation, deemed his struggles too significant to keep him in the majors. The team’s strategy for the season includes a heavy reliance on right-handed hitters, a decision influenced by the left-handed pitchers they’ll face. Potential opponents include Max Fried (Yankees), David Petersen and Sean Manaea (Mets), Cristopher Sanchez and Jesus Luzardo (Phillies), Trevor Rogers (Orioles), Andrew Abbott and Nick Lodolo (Reds), Foster Griffin (Nationals), and Braxton Garrett (Marlins). While the Giants face a challenging rotation, the decision to prioritize right-handed bats suggests they are not overcompensating for lefty-heavy matchups. Players like Jerar Encarnacion and Luis Matos have emerged as key depth options. Encarnacion, with a .283 on-base percentage and .#bryce_eldridge #san_francisco_giants #triple_a_sacramento #maria_guardado #spring_training_cuts
