[Mick]

When I think of Verlander, I think of his open-mouthed reaction on TV after the Panda hammered him in the 2012 Series.  

I don’t like the deal but it doesn’t surprise me.  We can add Verlander to the esteemed list of 40+ pitchers (Spahn, Johnson, Carlton) who joined the Giants towards the end of their careers.  I would expect him to have a similar level of success with SF as those Hall of Famers did with the Giants (a cumulative .480 W/L percentage)

An underrated (I think) element of adding the senior Hall of Fame pitcher is their effect on the younger pitching staff. Johnson's year with the Giants was 2009...we all know what happened in 2010. And 2012. And 2014. Maybe Verlander will have the same effect.

Yep. Totally agree.

Mike Krukow had a lot to say about this during his segment on the Murph and Markus show on Thu morning.  He also talked about how veteran pitchers can help young catchers, not just other pitchers.  You can find the segment at https://www.knbr.com/murphandmarkus/  Scroll to the 1/9 Krukow segment.

Thanks, makes sense. Stopped listening to KNBR when they dump Tolbert. Most of those who are there now are not good nor entertaining. . . .

Very hard to listen to KNBR. I like Murph, but I didn't like it when they dropped Dave Newhouse ...or Barbieri...or Krueger...or Lund...or Santangelo...or McCaffrey...or Brooks. Connor, I understood.

[Mick]

When I think of Verlander, I think of his open-mouthed reaction on TV after the Panda hammered him in the 2012 Series.  

I don’t like the deal but it doesn’t surprise me.  We can add Verlander to the esteemed list of 40+ pitchers (Spahn, Johnson, Carlton) who joined the Giants towards the end of their careers.  I would expect him to have a similar level of success with SF as those Hall of Famers did with the Giants (a cumulative .480 W/L percentage)

An underrated (I think) element of adding the senior Hall of Fame pitcher is their effect on the younger pitching staff. Johnson's year with the Giants was 2009...we all know what happened in 2010. And 2012. And 2014. Maybe Verlander will have the same effect.

Yep. Totally agree.

Mike Krukow had a lot to say about this during his segment on the Murph and Markus show on Thu morning.  He also talked about how veteran pitchers can help young catchers, not just other pitchers.  You can find the segment at https://www.knbr.com/murphandmarkus/  Scroll to the 1/9 Krukow segment.

Thanks, makes sense. Stopped listening to KNBR when they dump Tolbert. Most of those who are there now are not good nor entertaining. . . .

Very hard to listen to KNBR. I like Murph, but I didn't like it when they dropped Dave Newhouse ...or Barbieri...or Krueger...or Lund...or Santangelo...or McCaffrey...or Brooks. Connor, I understood.

[amytmueller]

Mike Krukow had a lot to say about this during his segment on the Murph and Markus show on Thu morning.  He also talked about how veteran pitchers can help young catchers, not just other pitchers.  You can find the segment at https://www.knbr.com/murphandmarkus/  Scroll to the 1/9 Krukow segment.
[/quote]

Thanks, makes sense. Stopped listening to KNBR when they dump Tolbert. Most of those who are there now are not good nor entertaining. . . .
[/quote]

I hear you, also disappointed in who KNBR let go, some of my favorites.

But, I still enjoy certain guests, namely Kruk and Kuip, Steve Young, Brent Jones, and several sports writers who give good insights.

Have to pick and choose, browsing the podcasts is better than just listening to the radio/feed.

[amytmueller]

Mike Krukow had a lot to say about this during his segment on the Murph and Markus show on Thu morning.  He also talked about how veteran pitchers can help young catchers, not just other pitchers.  You can find the segment at https://www.knbr.com/murphandmarkus/  Scroll to the 1/9 Krukow segment.
[/quote]

Thanks, makes sense. Stopped listening to KNBR when they dump Tolbert. Most of those who are there now are not good nor entertaining. . . .
[/quote]

I hear you, also disappointed in who KNBR let go, some of my favorites.

But, I still enjoy certain guests, namely Kruk and Kuip, Steve Young, Brent Jones, and several sports writers who give good insights.

Have to pick and choose, browsing the podcasts is better than just listening to the radio/feed.

[Mick]

Blake Sabol was DFA'd to make room for Justin Verlander. Interesting player. Here's his stat line from last year: .313/.421/.392/.705, 133 OPS+. I get his shortcomings, but...they couldn't find a trade for him? If he'd had enough ABs, his OBP would have been second in MLB and his batting average would have been fifth. I know they wouldn't get Arson Judge for him but...seriously? No takers? Speaking of which, does anyone find it at all interesting that Posey/Minasian haven't made a single trade yet?

I do like Miguel Diaz, the pitcher they just picked up. I know he's going to be in the minors. His ERA since 2021 is 2.82, 0.96 in 2023 and 2024 with 0.857 WHIP. He's only 30. Might work out.

[Mick]

Blake Sabol was DFA'd to make room for Justin Verlander. Interesting player. Here's his stat line from last year: .313/.421/.392/.705, 133 OPS+. I get his shortcomings, but...they couldn't find a trade for him? If he'd had enough ABs, his OBP would have been second in MLB and his batting average would have been fifth. I know they wouldn't get Arson Judge for him but...seriously? No takers? Speaking of which, does anyone find it at all interesting that Posey/Minasian haven't made a single trade yet?

I do like Miguel Diaz, the pitcher they just picked up. I know he's going to be in the minors. His ERA since 2021 is 2.82, 0.96 in 2023 and 2024 with 0.857 WHIP. He's only 30. Might work out.

[Mick]

I note that three of the Giants' All-Star/All-Star level players are bunched right around the same OPS level; Chapman (.790), Ramos (.792) and Adames (.793). Two are big money guys.

Know who else has big OPS? Recently-released Blake Sabol (.796) and let-go-for-a-song Joey Bart (.799). Sabol's numbers happened in just a few ABs, but former #2 overall pick Bart had 253 ABs.

[Mick]

I note that three of the Giants' All-Star/All-Star level players are bunched right around the same OPS level; Chapman (.790), Ramos (.792) and Adames (.793). Two are big money guys.

Know who else has big OPS? Recently-released Blake Sabol (.796) and let-go-for-a-song Joey Bart (.799). Sabol's numbers happened in just a few ABs, but former #2 overall pick Bart had 253 ABs.

[Mick]

With the A's gone to Sacto, and (hopefully) more wins, do you anticipate that Giants attendance will increase?

2024 SFG attendance: 2,647,736, 12th in MLB

2023 SFG attendance: 2,500,153, 17th in MLB

[Mick]

With the A's gone to Sacto, and (hopefully) more wins, do you anticipate that Giants attendance will increase?

2024 SFG attendance: 2,647,736, 12th in MLB

2023 SFG attendance: 2,500,153, 17th in MLB

[Giants]

With the A's gone to Sacto, and (hopefully) more wins, do you anticipate that Giants attendance will increase?

2024 SFG attendance: 2,647,736, 12th in MLB

2023 SFG attendance: 2,500,153, 17th in MLB

IMO, the A’s never had anything to do with SF attendance (and vice versa).  The fan bases are distinct groups with little to no crossover.

---

Blake Sabol was DFA'd to make room for Justin Verlander. Interesting player. Here's his stat line from last year: .313/.421/.392/.705, 133 OPS+. I get his shortcomings, but...they couldn't find a trade for him? If he'd had enough ABs, his OBP would have been second in MLB and his batting average would have been fifth. I know they wouldn't get Arson Judge for him but...seriously? No takers? Speaking of which, does anyone find it at all interesting that Posey/Minasian haven't made a single trade yet?

I do like Miguel Diaz, the pitcher they just picked up. I know he's going to be in the minors. His ERA since 2021 is 2.82, 0.96 in 2023 and 2024 with 0.857 WHIP. He's only 30. Might work out.

There was an article recently in The Athletic regarding the lack of trades.  The issue is simple - everyone wants Eldridge and Posey considers him untouchable.  Hence, the trade talks have ended before they gained any traction.  

As for Sabol, his value is in the eye of the beholder.  It is pretty obvious to me that no one wants a guy who is a mediocre hitter and has little to no defensive skills.  I am glad to see Posey move away from players who are not plus defenders and have little to no speed.  

Getting more athletic should be (and is] the hallmark of the Posey administration.  Yep, there is still room for guys who can do more than either hit an HR or strike out, can move only station to station on the bases and cannot catch a fly ball or field a grounder.

[Giants]

With the A's gone to Sacto, and (hopefully) more wins, do you anticipate that Giants attendance will increase?

2024 SFG attendance: 2,647,736, 12th in MLB

2023 SFG attendance: 2,500,153, 17th in MLB

IMO, the A’s never had anything to do with SF attendance (and vice versa).  The fan bases are distinct groups with little to no crossover.

---

Blake Sabol was DFA'd to make room for Justin Verlander. Interesting player. Here's his stat line from last year: .313/.421/.392/.705, 133 OPS+. I get his shortcomings, but...they couldn't find a trade for him? If he'd had enough ABs, his OBP would have been second in MLB and his batting average would have been fifth. I know they wouldn't get Arson Judge for him but...seriously? No takers? Speaking of which, does anyone find it at all interesting that Posey/Minasian haven't made a single trade yet?

I do like Miguel Diaz, the pitcher they just picked up. I know he's going to be in the minors. His ERA since 2021 is 2.82, 0.96 in 2023 and 2024 with 0.857 WHIP. He's only 30. Might work out.

There was an article recently in The Athletic regarding the lack of trades.  The issue is simple - everyone wants Eldridge and Posey considers him untouchable.  Hence, the trade talks have ended before they gained any traction.  

As for Sabol, his value is in the eye of the beholder.  It is pretty obvious to me that no one wants a guy who is a mediocre hitter and has little to no defensive skills.  I am glad to see Posey move away from players who are not plus defenders and have little to no speed.  

Getting more athletic should be (and is] the hallmark of the Posey administration.  Yep, there is still room for guys who can do more than either hit an HR or strike out, can move only station to station on the bases and cannot catch a fly ball or field a grounder.

[old spanish trail]

With the A's gone to Sacto, and (hopefully) more wins, do you anticipate that Giants attendance will increase?

2024 SFG attendance: 2,647,736, 12th in MLB

2023 SFG attendance: 2,500,153, 17th in MLB

IMO, the A’s never had anything to do with SF attendance (and vice versa).  The fan bases are distinct groups with little to no crossover.

---

Blake Sabol was DFA'd to make room for Justin Verlander. Interesting player. Here's his stat line from last year: .313/.421/.392/.705, 133 OPS+. I get his shortcomings, but...they couldn't find a trade for him? If he'd had enough ABs, his OBP would have been second in MLB and his batting average would have been fifth. I know they wouldn't get Arson Judge for him but...seriously? No takers? Speaking of which, does anyone find it at all interesting that Posey/Minasian haven't made a single trade yet?

I do like Miguel Diaz, the pitcher they just picked up. I know he's going to be in the minors. His ERA since 2021 is 2.82, 0.96 in 2023 and 2024 with 0.857 WHIP. He's only 30. Might work out.

There was an article recently in The Athletic regarding the lack of trades.  The issue is simple - everyone wants Eldridge and Posey considers him untouchable.  Hence, the trade talks have ended before they gained any traction.  

As for Sabol, his value is in the eye of the beholder.  It is pretty obvious to me that no one wants a guy who is a mediocre hitter and has little to no defensive skills.  I am glad to see Posey move away from players who are not plus defenders and have little to no speed.  

Getting more athletic should be (and is] the hallmark of the Posey administration.  Yep, there is still room for guys who can do more than either hit an HR or strike out, can move only station to station on the bases and cannot catch a fly ball or field a grounder.

i think somebody picks up Sabol as their LDH and emergency catcher. I think he has more than average speed and hits for power. And, he's a good clubhouse guy.

[old spanish trail]

With the A's gone to Sacto, and (hopefully) more wins, do you anticipate that Giants attendance will increase?

2024 SFG attendance: 2,647,736, 12th in MLB

2023 SFG attendance: 2,500,153, 17th in MLB

IMO, the A’s never had anything to do with SF attendance (and vice versa).  The fan bases are distinct groups with little to no crossover.

---

Blake Sabol was DFA'd to make room for Justin Verlander. Interesting player. Here's his stat line from last year: .313/.421/.392/.705, 133 OPS+. I get his shortcomings, but...they couldn't find a trade for him? If he'd had enough ABs, his OBP would have been second in MLB and his batting average would have been fifth. I know they wouldn't get Arson Judge for him but...seriously? No takers? Speaking of which, does anyone find it at all interesting that Posey/Minasian haven't made a single trade yet?

I do like Miguel Diaz, the pitcher they just picked up. I know he's going to be in the minors. His ERA since 2021 is 2.82, 0.96 in 2023 and 2024 with 0.857 WHIP. He's only 30. Might work out.

There was an article recently in The Athletic regarding the lack of trades.  The issue is simple - everyone wants Eldridge and Posey considers him untouchable.  Hence, the trade talks have ended before they gained any traction.  

As for Sabol, his value is in the eye of the beholder.  It is pretty obvious to me that no one wants a guy who is a mediocre hitter and has little to no defensive skills.  I am glad to see Posey move away from players who are not plus defenders and have little to no speed.  

Getting more athletic should be (and is] the hallmark of the Posey administration.  Yep, there is still room for guys who can do more than either hit an HR or strike out, can move only station to station on the bases and cannot catch a fly ball or field a grounder.

i think somebody picks up Sabol as their LDH and emergency catcher. I think he has more than average speed and hits for power. And, he's a good clubhouse guy.

[Mick]

Sasaki has turned down the Giants. He also turned down the Mets and Yankees.

Giants lose the Rōki Sasaki sweepstakes

Verlander has some interesting incentives in his contract:

$200K for MVP ($150K-2nd; $50K-3rd)
$200K for Cy Young ($150K-2nd; $50K-3rd)
$150K for WS/MVP
$100K for LCS/MVP
$100K for All Star
Full No Trade

[Mick]

Sasaki has turned down the Giants. He also turned down the Mets and Yankees.

Giants lose the Rōki Sasaki sweepstakes

Verlander has some interesting incentives in his contract:

$200K for MVP ($150K-2nd; $50K-3rd)
$200K for Cy Young ($150K-2nd; $50K-3rd)
$150K for WS/MVP
$100K for LCS/MVP
$100K for All Star
Full No Trade

[Giants]

1736797672[/url]']
Sasaki has turned down the Giants. He also turned down the Mets and Yankees.

Giants lose the Rōki Sasaki sweepstakes

Verlander has some interesting incentives in his contract:

$200K for MVP ($150K-2nd; $50K-3rd)
$200K for Cy Young ($150K-2nd; $50K-3rd)
$150K for WS/MVP
$100K for LCS/MVP
$100K for All Star
Full No Trade

Darn.  There goes the plan to trade him to Baltimore so he can complete the Orange circuit.

Sasaki is down to Toronto, LA and SD.  Since Toronto is the AL equivalent of SF (always a bridesmaid, never the bride), it is down to SD or LA. The consensus is that he is headed to the Dodgers.  I still think the winner will be San Diego.  

Regardless, he is going to sign with a club in a high tax jurisdiction.  So much for that nonsense of star players only being interested in signing with teams in low tax locales.

[Giants]

1736797672[/url]']
Sasaki has turned down the Giants. He also turned down the Mets and Yankees.

Giants lose the Rōki Sasaki sweepstakes

Verlander has some interesting incentives in his contract:

$200K for MVP ($150K-2nd; $50K-3rd)
$200K for Cy Young ($150K-2nd; $50K-3rd)
$150K for WS/MVP
$100K for LCS/MVP
$100K for All Star
Full No Trade

Darn.  There goes the plan to trade him to Baltimore so he can complete the Orange circuit.

Sasaki is down to Toronto, LA and SD.  Since Toronto is the AL equivalent of SF (always a bridesmaid, never the bride), it is down to SD or LA. The consensus is that he is headed to the Dodgers.  I still think the winner will be San Diego.  

Regardless, he is going to sign with a club in a high tax jurisdiction.  So much for that nonsense of star players only being interested in signing with teams in low tax locales.

[Mick]

1736797672[/url]']
Sasaki has turned down the Giants. He also turned down the Mets and Yankees.

Giants lose the Rōki Sasaki sweepstakes

Verlander has some interesting incentives in his contract:

$200K for MVP ($150K-2nd; $50K-3rd)
$200K for Cy Young ($150K-2nd; $50K-3rd)
$150K for WS/MVP
$100K for LCS/MVP
$100K for All Star
Full No Trade

Darn.  There goes the plan to trade him to Baltimore so he can complete the Orange circuit.

Sasaki is down to Toronto, LA and SD.  Since Toronto is the AL equivalent of SF (always a bridesmaid, never the bride), it is down to SD or LA. The consensus is that he is headed to the Dodgers.  I still think the winner will be San Diego.  

Regardless, he is going to sign with a club in a high tax jurisdiction.  So much for that nonsense of star players only being interested in signing with teams in low tax locales.

I think you're right. I think the dual tiebreaker is local media vs. LA craziness AND relationship with Darvish.

Separate topic...what do you think about Randal Grichuk as a low-cost pickup? He's 33 this year, but he hit .291/.348/.528/.875 in 254 ABs for the Diamondbacks last year. Just 46 strikeouts. Corner outfielder, really good range, positive Rtot. Could be had for 2 years, $6.6 million, supposedly.

Randal Grichuk Stats, Height, Weight, Position, Rookie Status & More | Baseball-Reference.com

[Mick]

1736797672[/url]']
Sasaki has turned down the Giants. He also turned down the Mets and Yankees.

Giants lose the Rōki Sasaki sweepstakes

Verlander has some interesting incentives in his contract:

$200K for MVP ($150K-2nd; $50K-3rd)
$200K for Cy Young ($150K-2nd; $50K-3rd)
$150K for WS/MVP
$100K for LCS/MVP
$100K for All Star
Full No Trade

Darn.  There goes the plan to trade him to Baltimore so he can complete the Orange circuit.

Sasaki is down to Toronto, LA and SD.  Since Toronto is the AL equivalent of SF (always a bridesmaid, never the bride), it is down to SD or LA. The consensus is that he is headed to the Dodgers.  I still think the winner will be San Diego.  

Regardless, he is going to sign with a club in a high tax jurisdiction.  So much for that nonsense of star players only being interested in signing with teams in low tax locales.

I think you're right. I think the dual tiebreaker is local media vs. LA craziness AND relationship with Darvish.

Separate topic...what do you think about Randal Grichuk as a low-cost pickup? He's 33 this year, but he hit .291/.348/.528/.875 in 254 ABs for the Diamondbacks last year. Just 46 strikeouts. Corner outfielder, really good range, positive Rtot. Could be had for 2 years, $6.6 million, supposedly.

Randal Grichuk Stats, Height, Weight, Position, Rookie Status & More | Baseball-Reference.com

[Giants]

1736815184[/url]']

1736814573[/url]']

1736797672[/url]']
Sasaki has turned down the Giants. He also turned down the Mets and Yankees.

Giants lose the Rōki Sasaki sweepstakes

Verlander has some interesting incentives in his contract:

$200K for MVP ($150K-2nd; $50K-3rd)
$200K for Cy Young ($150K-2nd; $50K-3rd)
$150K for WS/MVP
$100K for LCS/MVP
$100K for All Star
Full No Trade

Darn.  There goes the plan to trade him to Baltimore so he can complete the Orange circuit.

Sasaki is down to Toronto, LA and SD.  Since Toronto is the AL equivalent of SF (always a bridesmaid, never the bride), it is down to SD or LA. The consensus is that he is headed to the Dodgers.  I still think the winner will be San Diego.  

Regardless, he is going to sign with a club in a high tax jurisdiction.  So much for that nonsense of star players only being interested in signing with teams in low tax locales.

I think you're right. I think the dual tiebreaker is local media vs. LA craziness AND relationship with Darvish.

Separate topic...what do you think about Randal Grichuk as a low-cost pickup? He's 33 this year, but he hit .291/.348/.528/.875 in 254 ABs for the Diamondbacks last year. Just 46 strikeouts. Corner outfielder, really good range, positive Rtot. Could be had for 2 years, $6.6 million, supposedly.

Randal Grichuk Stats, Height, Weight, Position, Rookie Status & More | Baseball-Reference.com

I like the idea of pairing him with Yaz.  At this point, it’s Matos/Yaz in RF.  Signing Grichuk at $6.6/2 would be a solid insurance policy in case Matos flops.  And, of course, a veteran fourth OF is always welcome because of possible injuries to any of the starters.

[Giants]

1736815184[/url]']

1736814573[/url]']

1736797672[/url]']
Sasaki has turned down the Giants. He also turned down the Mets and Yankees.

Giants lose the Rōki Sasaki sweepstakes

Verlander has some interesting incentives in his contract:

$200K for MVP ($150K-2nd; $50K-3rd)
$200K for Cy Young ($150K-2nd; $50K-3rd)
$150K for WS/MVP
$100K for LCS/MVP
$100K for All Star
Full No Trade

Darn.  There goes the plan to trade him to Baltimore so he can complete the Orange circuit.

Sasaki is down to Toronto, LA and SD.  Since Toronto is the AL equivalent of SF (always a bridesmaid, never the bride), it is down to SD or LA. The consensus is that he is headed to the Dodgers.  I still think the winner will be San Diego.  

Regardless, he is going to sign with a club in a high tax jurisdiction.  So much for that nonsense of star players only being interested in signing with teams in low tax locales.

I think you're right. I think the dual tiebreaker is local media vs. LA craziness AND relationship with Darvish.

Separate topic...what do you think about Randal Grichuk as a low-cost pickup? He's 33 this year, but he hit .291/.348/.528/.875 in 254 ABs for the Diamondbacks last year. Just 46 strikeouts. Corner outfielder, really good range, positive Rtot. Could be had for 2 years, $6.6 million, supposedly.

Randal Grichuk Stats, Height, Weight, Position, Rookie Status & More | Baseball-Reference.com

I like the idea of pairing him with Yaz.  At this point, it’s Matos/Yaz in RF.  Signing Grichuk at $6.6/2 would be a solid insurance policy in case Matos flops.  And, of course, a veteran fourth OF is always welcome because of possible injuries to any of the starters.

[BostonCard]

Looks like it’s official, Sasaki will go to the Padres, Dodgers (boo) or blue Jays.

https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/4340...asaki-join

BC

[BostonCard]

Looks like it’s official, Sasaki will go to the Padres, Dodgers (boo) or blue Jays.

https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/4340...asaki-join

BC

[Mick]

Thairo Estrada is getting $4 mms. guaranteed from the Rockies:

Thairo Estrada guaranteed $4 million in deal with Colorado Rockies

He had three really good years for the Giants between 2021 and 2023, averaging .266/.320/.416/.736 and a terrible year last year at .217/.243/.247/.343/.598. He's a utility infielder and mainly a second baseman. Maybe the Rockies can fix what ails him...his career split stats at Coors Field are .348/.406/.565/.971. His full season numbers, based solely on Colorado splits project to 126 games, 552 ABs, 80 runs scored, 192 hits, 36 doubles, six triples, 24 HRs, 18 SBs, 42 walks, 90 Ks.

[Mick]

Thairo Estrada is getting $4 mms. guaranteed from the Rockies:

Thairo Estrada guaranteed $4 million in deal with Colorado Rockies

He had three really good years for the Giants between 2021 and 2023, averaging .266/.320/.416/.736 and a terrible year last year at .217/.243/.247/.343/.598. He's a utility infielder and mainly a second baseman. Maybe the Rockies can fix what ails him...his career split stats at Coors Field are .348/.406/.565/.971. His full season numbers, based solely on Colorado splits project to 126 games, 552 ABs, 80 runs scored, 192 hits, 36 doubles, six triples, 24 HRs, 18 SBs, 42 walks, 90 Ks.

[lex24]

1736009752[/url]']
[The 2024 Giants thread is here:
https://thecardboard.org/board/showthread.php?tid=24512]

This is why the Giants are mediocre. This guy was their second round pick, their #2 overall selection in 2023. He's 21 years old this year and batted .229 in rookie ball and .202 in low-A San Jose. They paid him over-slot $3 million.

I will say I am impressed with a .391 OBP. So he at least has an eye. He hit .633 in high school, led the nation with 20 home runs. They almost picked him over Bryce Eldridge.

San Francisco Giants Second-Round Pick Eyes Turnaround Next Season

Walker Martin Minor Leagues Statistics | Baseball-Reference.com

Little  early to give up on Martin.  Great athlete.  From what I’ve read, he pressed horribly last year. Let’s see how he does this year. As “they” say, “development is not linear”


If you are interested in the Giants farm system, Roger Munter’s blog etc is well worth the price.  “There R Giants” is, I think, what he calls it.  But google him to be sure. 

He is currently doing his positional analysis of the entire system. From the Big Club though the Ariz Development Leagues.  It’s good stuff. He is a Giant’s lifer fan wise. But he does not seem to let that get in the way of his analysis.

[lex24]

1736009752[/url]']
[The 2024 Giants thread is here:
https://thecardboard.org/board/showthread.php?tid=24512]

This is why the Giants are mediocre. This guy was their second round pick, their #2 overall selection in 2023. He's 21 years old this year and batted .229 in rookie ball and .202 in low-A San Jose. They paid him over-slot $3 million.

I will say I am impressed with a .391 OBP. So he at least has an eye. He hit .633 in high school, led the nation with 20 home runs. They almost picked him over Bryce Eldridge.

San Francisco Giants Second-Round Pick Eyes Turnaround Next Season

Walker Martin Minor Leagues Statistics | Baseball-Reference.com

Little  early to give up on Martin.  Great athlete.  From what I’ve read, he pressed horribly last year. Let’s see how he does this year. As “they” say, “development is not linear”


If you are interested in the Giants farm system, Roger Munter’s blog etc is well worth the price.  “There R Giants” is, I think, what he calls it.  But google him to be sure. 

He is currently doing his positional analysis of the entire system. From the Big Club though the Ariz Development Leagues.  It’s good stuff. He is a Giant’s lifer fan wise. But he does not seem to let that get in the way of his analysis.

[Mick]

If you are interested in the Giants farm system, Roger Munter’s blog etc is well worth the price.  “There R Giants” is, I think, what he calls it.  But google him to be sure. 

He is currently doing his positional analysis of the entire system. From the Big Club though the Ariz Development Leagues.  It’s good stuff. He is a Giant’s lifer fan wise. But he does not seem to let that get in the way of his analysis.

Munter made an interesting point that the Giants' propensity to draft college athletes means that they miss out on development for young players, since they're getting them when they're 21 or 22.

Best quote of the below link:

"So those are the things I’d suggest you look for. A turn towards more high school picks, greater prioritization of athleticism and physicality or the ability to get guys stronger and more physical, along with a stronger emphasis on big velo pitchers would help the club enhance its prospect reputation going forward, because those are the players who tend to make up a large portion of Top 100 lists."

"Welcome to 2025!" Edition of the Free For All Mailbag, Vol. I

Most interesting disconnect: the Giants have a poorly-rated minor league organization, and if it weren't for Bryce Eldridge, they'd be a solid #30. At the same time, in the recent Rule 5 minor league draft, the Giants had more players selected than the Dodgers (six versus five). He also thinks the Giants wanted to keep Julio Rodriguez.

Per Roger, most underrated Giants minor leaguer is Juan Sanchez, based on his conversations with other teams' scouts. Was 4-0 in last year's AAA with a 3.93 ERA, superb for the PCL. But he had Tommy John surgery and he's 24 and tiny (5'9"). Maybe he's John Franco... Others were 18 year old Argenis Cayama (2.59 ERA in fall ball) and Josh Bostick, 4.98 ERA in the PCL.

[Mick]

If you are interested in the Giants farm system, Roger Munter’s blog etc is well worth the price.  “There R Giants” is, I think, what he calls it.  But google him to be sure. 

He is currently doing his positional analysis of the entire system. From the Big Club though the Ariz Development Leagues.  It’s good stuff. He is a Giant’s lifer fan wise. But he does not seem to let that get in the way of his analysis.

Munter made an interesting point that the Giants' propensity to draft college athletes means that they miss out on development for young players, since they're getting them when they're 21 or 22.

Best quote of the below link:

"So those are the things I’d suggest you look for. A turn towards more high school picks, greater prioritization of athleticism and physicality or the ability to get guys stronger and more physical, along with a stronger emphasis on big velo pitchers would help the club enhance its prospect reputation going forward, because those are the players who tend to make up a large portion of Top 100 lists."

"Welcome to 2025!" Edition of the Free For All Mailbag, Vol. I

Most interesting disconnect: the Giants have a poorly-rated minor league organization, and if it weren't for Bryce Eldridge, they'd be a solid #30. At the same time, in the recent Rule 5 minor league draft, the Giants had more players selected than the Dodgers (six versus five). He also thinks the Giants wanted to keep Julio Rodriguez.

Per Roger, most underrated Giants minor leaguer is Juan Sanchez, based on his conversations with other teams' scouts. Was 4-0 in last year's AAA with a 3.93 ERA, superb for the PCL. But he had Tommy John surgery and he's 24 and tiny (5'9"). Maybe he's John Franco... Others were 18 year old Argenis Cayama (2.59 ERA in fall ball) and Josh Bostick, 4.98 ERA in the PCL.

[Mick]

1736815184[/url]']

1736814573[/url]']

1736797672[/url]']
Sasaki has turned down the Giants. He also turned down the Mets and Yankees.

Giants lose the Rōki Sasaki sweepstakes

Verlander has some interesting incentives in his contract:

$200K for MVP ($150K-2nd; $50K-3rd)
$200K for Cy Young ($150K-2nd; $50K-3rd)
$150K for WS/MVP
$100K for LCS/MVP
$100K for All Star
Full No Trade

Darn.  There goes the plan to trade him to Baltimore so he can complete the Orange circuit.

Sasaki is down to Toronto, LA and SD.  Since Toronto is the AL equivalent of SF (always a bridesmaid, never the bride), it is down to SD or LA. The consensus is that he is headed to the Dodgers.  I still think the winner will be San Diego.  

Regardless, he is going to sign with a club in a high tax jurisdiction.  So much for that nonsense of star players only being interested in signing with teams in low tax locales.

I think you're right. I think the dual tiebreaker is local media vs. LA craziness AND relationship with Darvish.

Separate topic...what do you think about Randal Grichuk as a low-cost pickup? He's 33 this year, but he hit .291/.348/.528/.875 in 254 ABs for the Diamondbacks last year. Just 46 strikeouts. Corner outfielder, really good range, positive Rtot. Could be had for 2 years, $6.6 million, supposedly.

Randal Grichuk Stats, Height, Weight, Position, Rookie Status & More | Baseball-Reference.com

I like the idea of pairing him with Yaz.  At this point, it’s Matos/Yaz in RF.  Signing Grichuk at $6.6/2 would be a solid insurance policy in case Matos flops.  And, of course, a veteran fourth OF is always welcome because of possible injuries to any of the starters.

Looks like they're trying to get there.

Robert Murray on X: "With spring training only a month away, and Justin Verlander’s deal official, the Giants recently had a conversation with free-agent outfielder Randal Grichuk’s camp, source says. @Feinsand mentioned that the Pirates are another team interested in Grichuk, who’s coming off a" / X

[Mick]

1736815184[/url]']

1736814573[/url]']

1736797672[/url]']
Sasaki has turned down the Giants. He also turned down the Mets and Yankees.

Giants lose the Rōki Sasaki sweepstakes

Verlander has some interesting incentives in his contract:

$200K for MVP ($150K-2nd; $50K-3rd)
$200K for Cy Young ($150K-2nd; $50K-3rd)
$150K for WS/MVP
$100K for LCS/MVP
$100K for All Star
Full No Trade

Darn.  There goes the plan to trade him to Baltimore so he can complete the Orange circuit.

Sasaki is down to Toronto, LA and SD.  Since Toronto is the AL equivalent of SF (always a bridesmaid, never the bride), it is down to SD or LA. The consensus is that he is headed to the Dodgers.  I still think the winner will be San Diego.  

Regardless, he is going to sign with a club in a high tax jurisdiction.  So much for that nonsense of star players only being interested in signing with teams in low tax locales.

I think you're right. I think the dual tiebreaker is local media vs. LA craziness AND relationship with Darvish.

Separate topic...what do you think about Randal Grichuk as a low-cost pickup? He's 33 this year, but he hit .291/.348/.528/.875 in 254 ABs for the Diamondbacks last year. Just 46 strikeouts. Corner outfielder, really good range, positive Rtot. Could be had for 2 years, $6.6 million, supposedly.

Randal Grichuk Stats, Height, Weight, Position, Rookie Status & More | Baseball-Reference.com

I like the idea of pairing him with Yaz.  At this point, it’s Matos/Yaz in RF.  Signing Grichuk at $6.6/2 would be a solid insurance policy in case Matos flops.  And, of course, a veteran fourth OF is always welcome because of possible injuries to any of the starters.

Looks like they're trying to get there.

Robert Murray on X: "With spring training only a month away, and Justin Verlander’s deal official, the Giants recently had a conversation with free-agent outfielder Randal Grichuk’s camp, source says. @Feinsand mentioned that the Pirates are another team interested in Grichuk, who’s coming off a" / X

[lex24]

Grichuk hammers lefties.  Nice platoon piece with Yaz.

[lex24]

Grichuk hammers lefties.  Nice platoon piece with Yaz.

[Giants]

Sabol to the Red Sox for $250,000 international signing bonus money.  

SF signed 15 international players, including Josuar De Jesus Gonzalez, the #2 int’l prospect this year (Sasaki was #1). Gonzalez is a 17 year old shortstop from the DR. 

After the Luciano hoopla, I am reluctant to get too excited about int’l prospects but we can always hope….

[Giants]

Sabol to the Red Sox for $250,000 international signing bonus money.  

SF signed 15 international players, including Josuar De Jesus Gonzalez, the #2 int’l prospect this year (Sasaki was #1). Gonzalez is a 17 year old shortstop from the DR. 

After the Luciano hoopla, I am reluctant to get too excited about int’l prospects but we can always hope….

[lex24]

Hopefully, they’ll handle Gonzales better than they did Luciano. Although I haven’t given up on him yet.

[lex24]

Hopefully, they’ll handle Gonzales better than they did Luciano. Although I haven’t given up on him yet.

[Mick]

I think the jury is still out on Luciano. He's still just 23. He needs to make a big leap, for sure. But I think he's capable of doing so.

[Mick]

I think the jury is still out on Luciano. He's still just 23. He needs to make a big leap, for sure. But I think he's capable of doing so.