[Mick]

1740331701[/url]']

1740329299[/url]']

1740324710[/url]']
Eldridge-nice first impression.  450 foot HR in second AB. JT Snow is going to be in camp as a guest instructor.  I’d hire him full time as a so-called roving instructor.  He’d roam to wherever Eldridge is playing.  He never played first base prior to last year. 18 errors.  

 As a two way player he mostly DH’d when he didn’t pitch.  It’s going to take some time for him to be a viable defender.  Question will be - if he tears it up in Sac, but isn’t ready defensively, do they call him up and have him DH?  Thats not a long term ‘solution”.  But he could continue working on his defense before and between games.  

I’m hoping he forces the issue.

Eldridge was a two way player? Didn't see that in his stats from last year. . . .

Sort of. He was the 12th overall rated prospect and the #1 rated first baseman nationally. Here's the description: "Easy velocity up to 95 mph with big sinking life; high ceiling physical projection, repeats delivery well and fills the zone, also big left-handed power."

He did pretty well at AA (.270/.325/.460/.785) but faltered at AAA (.258/.343/.258/.601). No big deal, he was 19 years old. And the HR he had was off of a 91.5 mph fastball...and the pitcher he hit it off of (Matt Festa) gave up two home runs, three hits and three earned runs in one inning (McCray hit a home run off of him, too). Still, Festa was an MLB pitcher for five years with a 4.60 career ERA. Incidentally, Sam Huff, potential backup catcher also hit a 422 foot home run to center. And SF pitchers gave up just four hits.

Eldridge needs a lot of work at 1B. At least he's better this year (.977 field%) versus last year (.929 field%). And both his fielding percentage and range factor improved at AAA (.983 and 8.27). JT has six gold gloves, a career .995 fielding percentage and accepted a full chance and a half more per game than Eldridge did in the minors. BTW, MLB fielding average for first basemen is .993.

  Eldridge and Reggie Crawford were both drafted as two way players.  Giants fairly quickly went with Eldridge as a hitter, Crawford a pitcher.  Unfortunately Crawford had surgery and won’t pitch until 26.

I’m not sure what fielding numbers you’re referring to when you say “last year” and “this year” for Eldridge. The Giants in ‘23,  started out with him in right field.  26 games.  That didn’t work, so they shifted him to first base in ‘24, which was his first full year in the system. And his first time playing the position.  He made 18 errors. Which anyway you slice it is not good.

But before being drafted by the Giants, he pitched and DH’d.  EDIT:  He also played some first base according to reports I looked at.  But I think it was limited.  His draft rating was based on him projecting to play first.  I mean, that’s the logical place to play a 6’7 guy.  So it’s not surprising that’s it’s going take him some time to learn to play the position.

That's exactly what I was talking about. 2 errors in 28 chances in 2023 (.929) and 18 errors in 787 chances (.977).
Bryce Eldridge Minor & Fall Leagues Statistics | Baseball-Reference.com

He was listed as a first baseman in high school:
Bryce Eldridge's James Madison High School Bio

[Mick]

1740331701[/url]']

1740329299[/url]']

1740324710[/url]']
Eldridge-nice first impression.  450 foot HR in second AB. JT Snow is going to be in camp as a guest instructor.  I’d hire him full time as a so-called roving instructor.  He’d roam to wherever Eldridge is playing.  He never played first base prior to last year. 18 errors.  

 As a two way player he mostly DH’d when he didn’t pitch.  It’s going to take some time for him to be a viable defender.  Question will be - if he tears it up in Sac, but isn’t ready defensively, do they call him up and have him DH?  Thats not a long term ‘solution”.  But he could continue working on his defense before and between games.  

I’m hoping he forces the issue.

Eldridge was a two way player? Didn't see that in his stats from last year. . . .

Sort of. He was the 12th overall rated prospect and the #1 rated first baseman nationally. Here's the description: "Easy velocity up to 95 mph with big sinking life; high ceiling physical projection, repeats delivery well and fills the zone, also big left-handed power."

He did pretty well at AA (.270/.325/.460/.785) but faltered at AAA (.258/.343/.258/.601). No big deal, he was 19 years old. And the HR he had was off of a 91.5 mph fastball...and the pitcher he hit it off of (Matt Festa) gave up two home runs, three hits and three earned runs in one inning (McCray hit a home run off of him, too). Still, Festa was an MLB pitcher for five years with a 4.60 career ERA. Incidentally, Sam Huff, potential backup catcher also hit a 422 foot home run to center. And SF pitchers gave up just four hits.

Eldridge needs a lot of work at 1B. At least he's better this year (.977 field%) versus last year (.929 field%). And both his fielding percentage and range factor improved at AAA (.983 and 8.27). JT has six gold gloves, a career .995 fielding percentage and accepted a full chance and a half more per game than Eldridge did in the minors. BTW, MLB fielding average for first basemen is .993.

  Eldridge and Reggie Crawford were both drafted as two way players.  Giants fairly quickly went with Eldridge as a hitter, Crawford a pitcher.  Unfortunately Crawford had surgery and won’t pitch until 26.

I’m not sure what fielding numbers you’re referring to when you say “last year” and “this year” for Eldridge. The Giants in ‘23,  started out with him in right field.  26 games.  That didn’t work, so they shifted him to first base in ‘24, which was his first full year in the system. And his first time playing the position.  He made 18 errors. Which anyway you slice it is not good.

But before being drafted by the Giants, he pitched and DH’d.  EDIT:  He also played some first base according to reports I looked at.  But I think it was limited.  His draft rating was based on him projecting to play first.  I mean, that’s the logical place to play a 6’7 guy.  So it’s not surprising that’s it’s going take him some time to learn to play the position.

That's exactly what I was talking about. 2 errors in 28 chances in 2023 (.929) and 18 errors in 787 chances (.977).
Bryce Eldridge Minor & Fall Leagues Statistics | Baseball-Reference.com

He was listed as a first baseman in high school:
Bryce Eldridge's James Madison High School Bio

[Mick]

Be interesting to see the Giants' starting eight in the field this year. I was mentally comparing them to the Giants of 1931, finished 2nd in the NL, won 87 games (87-65-1), five Hall of Famers on the team.

1B Bill Terry, HoF, . 349, led league with 20 triples and 121 runs, 112 RBIs, 3rd in MVP voting, led league with 6.6 WAR, 1st in assists
2B Hughie Critz, .290 and Bill Hunnefield, .270 platoon
SS Travis Jackson, HoF, .310, 10 triples, 7th in MVP voting, led league in defensive WAR, 1st in fielding percentage and assists
3B Johnny Vergez, .278, 81 RBIs, 23rd in MVP voting, 4th in 3B range factor, 3rd in DPs, 4th in fielding percentage, 3rd in assists
LF Freddy Leach, .309, 30 doubles, 75 runs, 3rd in LF assists, 3rd in LF DPs
CF Mel Ott, HoF, .292, 29 HRs, 115 RBI, led league with 80 walks, and most HRs per AB, 4th in CF assists
RF Freddie Lindstrom, HoF, .300, struck out 12 times
C Shanty Hogan, .301, led league in intentional walks, 8th in most HRs per AB, 1st in catcher fielding %, 2nd in caught stealing

Their top three backups hit .328 (Chick Fullis), .329 (Ethan Allen) and .302 (Sam Leslie).

Pitchers led NL in ERA and included:

Carl Hubbell, HoF, 2.65 ERA, led league with 1.121 WHIP and fewest hits per 9 innings,
Bill Walker, led league in 2.26 ERA and six shutouts
Freddie Fitzsimmons, 25th in MVP voting, 18-11, 1.198 WHIP.
Clarence Mitchell, 13-11, 40 year old starter

Can't wait to see how the 2025 version compares...

[Mick]

Be interesting to see the Giants' starting eight in the field this year. I was mentally comparing them to the Giants of 1931, finished 2nd in the NL, won 87 games (87-65-1), five Hall of Famers on the team.

1B Bill Terry, HoF, . 349, led league with 20 triples and 121 runs, 112 RBIs, 3rd in MVP voting, led league with 6.6 WAR, 1st in assists
2B Hughie Critz, .290 and Bill Hunnefield, .270 platoon
SS Travis Jackson, HoF, .310, 10 triples, 7th in MVP voting, led league in defensive WAR, 1st in fielding percentage and assists
3B Johnny Vergez, .278, 81 RBIs, 23rd in MVP voting, 4th in 3B range factor, 3rd in DPs, 4th in fielding percentage, 3rd in assists
LF Freddy Leach, .309, 30 doubles, 75 runs, 3rd in LF assists, 3rd in LF DPs
CF Mel Ott, HoF, .292, 29 HRs, 115 RBI, led league with 80 walks, and most HRs per AB, 4th in CF assists
RF Freddie Lindstrom, HoF, .300, struck out 12 times
C Shanty Hogan, .301, led league in intentional walks, 8th in most HRs per AB, 1st in catcher fielding %, 2nd in caught stealing

Their top three backups hit .328 (Chick Fullis), .329 (Ethan Allen) and .302 (Sam Leslie).

Pitchers led NL in ERA and included:

Carl Hubbell, HoF, 2.65 ERA, led league with 1.121 WHIP and fewest hits per 9 innings,
Bill Walker, led league in 2.26 ERA and six shutouts
Freddie Fitzsimmons, 25th in MVP voting, 18-11, 1.198 WHIP.
Clarence Mitchell, 13-11, 40 year old starter

Can't wait to see how the 2025 version compares...

[lex24]

Be interesting to see the Giants' starting eight in the field this year. I was mentally comparing them to the Giants of 1931, finished 2nd in the NL, won 87 games (87-65-1), five Hall of Famers on the team.

1B Bill Terry, HoF, . 349, led league with 20 triples and 121 runs, 112 RBIs, 3rd in MVP voting, led league with 6.6 WAR, 1st in assists
2B Hughie Critz, .290 and Bill Hunnefield, .270 platoon
SS Travis Jackson, HoF, .310, 10 triples, 7th in MVP voting, led league in defensive WAR, 1st in fielding percentage and assists
3B Johnny Vergez, .278, 81 RBIs, 23rd in MVP voting, 4th in 3B range factor, 3rd in DPs, 4th in fielding percentage, 3rd in assists
LF Freddy Leach, .309, 30 doubles, 75 runs, 3rd in LF assists, 3rd in LF DPs
CF Mel Ott, HoF, .292, 29 HRs, 115 RBI, led league with 80 walks, and most HRs per AB, 4th in CF assists
RF Freddie Lindstrom, HoF, .300, struck out 12 times
C Shanty Hogan, .301, led league in intentional walks, 8th in most HRs per AB, 1st in catcher fielding %, 2nd in caught stealing

Their top three backups hit .328 (Chick Fullis), .329 (Ethan Allen) and .302 (Sam Leslie).

Pitchers led NL in ERA and included:

Carl Hubbell, HoF, 2.65 ERA, led league with 1.121 WHIP and fewest hits per 9 innings,
Bill Walker, led league in 2.26 ERA and six shutouts
Freddie Fitzsimmons, 25th in MVP voting, 18-11, 1.198 WHIP.
Clarence Mitchell, 13-11, 40 year old starter

Can't wait to see how the 2025 version compares...

Yeah, but give us the launch angles and exit velocities! :)

[lex24]

Be interesting to see the Giants' starting eight in the field this year. I was mentally comparing them to the Giants of 1931, finished 2nd in the NL, won 87 games (87-65-1), five Hall of Famers on the team.

1B Bill Terry, HoF, . 349, led league with 20 triples and 121 runs, 112 RBIs, 3rd in MVP voting, led league with 6.6 WAR, 1st in assists
2B Hughie Critz, .290 and Bill Hunnefield, .270 platoon
SS Travis Jackson, HoF, .310, 10 triples, 7th in MVP voting, led league in defensive WAR, 1st in fielding percentage and assists
3B Johnny Vergez, .278, 81 RBIs, 23rd in MVP voting, 4th in 3B range factor, 3rd in DPs, 4th in fielding percentage, 3rd in assists
LF Freddy Leach, .309, 30 doubles, 75 runs, 3rd in LF assists, 3rd in LF DPs
CF Mel Ott, HoF, .292, 29 HRs, 115 RBI, led league with 80 walks, and most HRs per AB, 4th in CF assists
RF Freddie Lindstrom, HoF, .300, struck out 12 times
C Shanty Hogan, .301, led league in intentional walks, 8th in most HRs per AB, 1st in catcher fielding %, 2nd in caught stealing

Their top three backups hit .328 (Chick Fullis), .329 (Ethan Allen) and .302 (Sam Leslie).

Pitchers led NL in ERA and included:

Carl Hubbell, HoF, 2.65 ERA, led league with 1.121 WHIP and fewest hits per 9 innings,
Bill Walker, led league in 2.26 ERA and six shutouts
Freddie Fitzsimmons, 25th in MVP voting, 18-11, 1.198 WHIP.
Clarence Mitchell, 13-11, 40 year old starter

Can't wait to see how the 2025 version compares...

Yeah, but give us the launch angles and exit velocities! :)

[Mick]

Be interesting to see the Giants' starting eight in the field this year. I was mentally comparing them to the Giants of 1931, finished 2nd in the NL, won 87 games (87-65-1), five Hall of Famers on the team.

1B Bill Terry, HoF, . 349, led league with 20 triples and 121 runs, 112 RBIs, 3rd in MVP voting, led league with 6.6 WAR, 1st in assists
2B Hughie Critz, .290 and Bill Hunnefield, .270 platoon
SS Travis Jackson, HoF, .310, 10 triples, 7th in MVP voting, led league in defensive WAR, 1st in fielding percentage and assists
3B Johnny Vergez, .278, 81 RBIs, 23rd in MVP voting, 4th in 3B range factor, 3rd in DPs, 4th in fielding percentage, 3rd in assists
LF Freddy Leach, .309, 30 doubles, 75 runs, 3rd in LF assists, 3rd in LF DPs
CF Mel Ott, HoF, .292, 29 HRs, 115 RBI, led league with 80 walks, and most HRs per AB, 4th in CF assists
RF Freddie Lindstrom, HoF, .300, struck out 12 times
C Shanty Hogan, .301, led league in intentional walks, 8th in most HRs per AB, 1st in catcher fielding %, 2nd in caught stealing

Their top three backups hit .328 (Chick Fullis), .329 (Ethan Allen) and .302 (Sam Leslie).

Pitchers led NL in ERA and included:

Carl Hubbell, HoF, 2.65 ERA, led league with 1.121 WHIP and fewest hits per 9 innings,
Bill Walker, led league in 2.26 ERA and six shutouts
Freddie Fitzsimmons, 25th in MVP voting, 18-11, 1.198 WHIP.
Clarence Mitchell, 13-11, 40 year old starter

Can't wait to see how the 2025 version compares...

Yeah, but give us the launch angles and exit velocities! :)

I'd rather know which five of the current team will make the Hall of Fame...

[Mick]

Be interesting to see the Giants' starting eight in the field this year. I was mentally comparing them to the Giants of 1931, finished 2nd in the NL, won 87 games (87-65-1), five Hall of Famers on the team.

1B Bill Terry, HoF, . 349, led league with 20 triples and 121 runs, 112 RBIs, 3rd in MVP voting, led league with 6.6 WAR, 1st in assists
2B Hughie Critz, .290 and Bill Hunnefield, .270 platoon
SS Travis Jackson, HoF, .310, 10 triples, 7th in MVP voting, led league in defensive WAR, 1st in fielding percentage and assists
3B Johnny Vergez, .278, 81 RBIs, 23rd in MVP voting, 4th in 3B range factor, 3rd in DPs, 4th in fielding percentage, 3rd in assists
LF Freddy Leach, .309, 30 doubles, 75 runs, 3rd in LF assists, 3rd in LF DPs
CF Mel Ott, HoF, .292, 29 HRs, 115 RBI, led league with 80 walks, and most HRs per AB, 4th in CF assists
RF Freddie Lindstrom, HoF, .300, struck out 12 times
C Shanty Hogan, .301, led league in intentional walks, 8th in most HRs per AB, 1st in catcher fielding %, 2nd in caught stealing

Their top three backups hit .328 (Chick Fullis), .329 (Ethan Allen) and .302 (Sam Leslie).

Pitchers led NL in ERA and included:

Carl Hubbell, HoF, 2.65 ERA, led league with 1.121 WHIP and fewest hits per 9 innings,
Bill Walker, led league in 2.26 ERA and six shutouts
Freddie Fitzsimmons, 25th in MVP voting, 18-11, 1.198 WHIP.
Clarence Mitchell, 13-11, 40 year old starter

Can't wait to see how the 2025 version compares...

Yeah, but give us the launch angles and exit velocities! :)

I'd rather know which five of the current team will make the Hall of Fame...

[Giants]

Be interesting to see the Giants' starting eight in the field this year. I was mentally comparing them to the Giants of 1931, finished 2nd in the NL, won 87 games (87-65-1), five Hall of Famers on the team.

1B Bill Terry, HoF, . 349, led league with 20 triples and 121 runs, 112 RBIs, 3rd in MVP voting, led league with 6.6 WAR, 1st in assists
2B Hughie Critz, .290 and Bill Hunnefield, .270 platoon
SS Travis Jackson, HoF, .310, 10 triples, 7th in MVP voting, led league in defensive WAR, 1st in fielding percentage and assists
3B Johnny Vergez, .278, 81 RBIs, 23rd in MVP voting, 4th in 3B range factor, 3rd in DPs, 4th in fielding percentage, 3rd in assists
LF Freddy Leach, .309, 30 doubles, 75 runs, 3rd in LF assists, 3rd in LF DPs
CF Mel Ott, HoF, .292, 29 HRs, 115 RBI, led league with 80 walks, and most HRs per AB, 4th in CF assists
RF Freddie Lindstrom, HoF, .300, struck out 12 times
C Shanty Hogan, .301, led league in intentional walks, 8th in most HRs per AB, 1st in catcher fielding %, 2nd in caught stealing

Their top three backups hit .328 (Chick Fullis), .329 (Ethan Allen) and .302 (Sam Leslie).

Pitchers led NL in ERA and included:

Carl Hubbell, HoF, 2.65 ERA, led league with 1.121 WHIP and fewest hits per 9 innings,
Bill Walker, led league in 2.26 ERA and six shutouts
Freddie Fitzsimmons, 25th in MVP voting, 18-11, 1.198 WHIP.
Clarence Mitchell, 13-11, 40 year old starter

Can't wait to see how the 2025 version compares...

Yeah, but give us the launch angles and exit velocities! :)

I'd rather know which five of the current team will make the Hall of Fame...

At this point, Verlander is the only guy….

[Giants]

Be interesting to see the Giants' starting eight in the field this year. I was mentally comparing them to the Giants of 1931, finished 2nd in the NL, won 87 games (87-65-1), five Hall of Famers on the team.

1B Bill Terry, HoF, . 349, led league with 20 triples and 121 runs, 112 RBIs, 3rd in MVP voting, led league with 6.6 WAR, 1st in assists
2B Hughie Critz, .290 and Bill Hunnefield, .270 platoon
SS Travis Jackson, HoF, .310, 10 triples, 7th in MVP voting, led league in defensive WAR, 1st in fielding percentage and assists
3B Johnny Vergez, .278, 81 RBIs, 23rd in MVP voting, 4th in 3B range factor, 3rd in DPs, 4th in fielding percentage, 3rd in assists
LF Freddy Leach, .309, 30 doubles, 75 runs, 3rd in LF assists, 3rd in LF DPs
CF Mel Ott, HoF, .292, 29 HRs, 115 RBI, led league with 80 walks, and most HRs per AB, 4th in CF assists
RF Freddie Lindstrom, HoF, .300, struck out 12 times
C Shanty Hogan, .301, led league in intentional walks, 8th in most HRs per AB, 1st in catcher fielding %, 2nd in caught stealing

Their top three backups hit .328 (Chick Fullis), .329 (Ethan Allen) and .302 (Sam Leslie).

Pitchers led NL in ERA and included:

Carl Hubbell, HoF, 2.65 ERA, led league with 1.121 WHIP and fewest hits per 9 innings,
Bill Walker, led league in 2.26 ERA and six shutouts
Freddie Fitzsimmons, 25th in MVP voting, 18-11, 1.198 WHIP.
Clarence Mitchell, 13-11, 40 year old starter

Can't wait to see how the 2025 version compares...

Yeah, but give us the launch angles and exit velocities! :)

I'd rather know which five of the current team will make the Hall of Fame...

At this point, Verlander is the only guy….

[Mick]

Be interesting to see the Giants' starting eight in the field this year. I was mentally comparing them to the Giants of 1931, finished 2nd in the NL, won 87 games (87-65-1), five Hall of Famers on the team.

1B Bill Terry, HoF, . 349, led league with 20 triples and 121 runs, 112 RBIs, 3rd in MVP voting, led league with 6.6 WAR, 1st in assists
2B Hughie Critz, .290 and Bill Hunnefield, .270 platoon
SS Travis Jackson, HoF, .310, 10 triples, 7th in MVP voting, led league in defensive WAR, 1st in fielding percentage and assists
3B Johnny Vergez, .278, 81 RBIs, 23rd in MVP voting, 4th in 3B range factor, 3rd in DPs, 4th in fielding percentage, 3rd in assists
LF Freddy Leach, .309, 30 doubles, 75 runs, 3rd in LF assists, 3rd in LF DPs
CF Mel Ott, HoF, .292, 29 HRs, 115 RBI, led league with 80 walks, and most HRs per AB, 4th in CF assists
RF Freddie Lindstrom, HoF, .300, struck out 12 times
C Shanty Hogan, .301, led league in intentional walks, 8th in most HRs per AB, 1st in catcher fielding %, 2nd in caught stealing

Their top three backups hit .328 (Chick Fullis), .329 (Ethan Allen) and .302 (Sam Leslie).

Pitchers led NL in ERA and included:

Carl Hubbell, HoF, 2.65 ERA, led league with 1.121 WHIP and fewest hits per 9 innings,
Bill Walker, led league in 2.26 ERA and six shutouts
Freddie Fitzsimmons, 25th in MVP voting, 18-11, 1.198 WHIP.
Clarence Mitchell, 13-11, 40 year old starter

Can't wait to see how the 2025 version compares...

Yeah, but give us the launch angles and exit velocities! :)

I'd rather know which five of the current team will make the Hall of Fame...

At this point, Verlander is the only guy….

Do you think Posey makes it into the HoF? RoY, MVP, 3x WS champs, 7x All Star, 5x Silver Slugger, etc. He's #14 on the JAWS list, the first 11 are in the HoF, the next two are Thurman Munson and Gene Tenace (who's not really a catcher). Catchers in the HoF with less JAWS than Posey include Buck Ewing, Roy Campanella, Roger Bresnahan, Josh Gibson, Ernie Lombardi, Ray Schalk and Rick Ferrell. BTW, Patrick Bailey is #479 on career catcher JAWS list. It's a good start... ;)

[Mick]

Be interesting to see the Giants' starting eight in the field this year. I was mentally comparing them to the Giants of 1931, finished 2nd in the NL, won 87 games (87-65-1), five Hall of Famers on the team.

1B Bill Terry, HoF, . 349, led league with 20 triples and 121 runs, 112 RBIs, 3rd in MVP voting, led league with 6.6 WAR, 1st in assists
2B Hughie Critz, .290 and Bill Hunnefield, .270 platoon
SS Travis Jackson, HoF, .310, 10 triples, 7th in MVP voting, led league in defensive WAR, 1st in fielding percentage and assists
3B Johnny Vergez, .278, 81 RBIs, 23rd in MVP voting, 4th in 3B range factor, 3rd in DPs, 4th in fielding percentage, 3rd in assists
LF Freddy Leach, .309, 30 doubles, 75 runs, 3rd in LF assists, 3rd in LF DPs
CF Mel Ott, HoF, .292, 29 HRs, 115 RBI, led league with 80 walks, and most HRs per AB, 4th in CF assists
RF Freddie Lindstrom, HoF, .300, struck out 12 times
C Shanty Hogan, .301, led league in intentional walks, 8th in most HRs per AB, 1st in catcher fielding %, 2nd in caught stealing

Their top three backups hit .328 (Chick Fullis), .329 (Ethan Allen) and .302 (Sam Leslie).

Pitchers led NL in ERA and included:

Carl Hubbell, HoF, 2.65 ERA, led league with 1.121 WHIP and fewest hits per 9 innings,
Bill Walker, led league in 2.26 ERA and six shutouts
Freddie Fitzsimmons, 25th in MVP voting, 18-11, 1.198 WHIP.
Clarence Mitchell, 13-11, 40 year old starter

Can't wait to see how the 2025 version compares...

Yeah, but give us the launch angles and exit velocities! :)

I'd rather know which five of the current team will make the Hall of Fame...

At this point, Verlander is the only guy….

Do you think Posey makes it into the HoF? RoY, MVP, 3x WS champs, 7x All Star, 5x Silver Slugger, etc. He's #14 on the JAWS list, the first 11 are in the HoF, the next two are Thurman Munson and Gene Tenace (who's not really a catcher). Catchers in the HoF with less JAWS than Posey include Buck Ewing, Roy Campanella, Roger Bresnahan, Josh Gibson, Ernie Lombardi, Ray Schalk and Rick Ferrell. BTW, Patrick Bailey is #479 on career catcher JAWS list. It's a good start... ;)

[Giants]

Be interesting to see the Giants' starting eight in the field this year. I was mentally comparing them to the Giants of 1931, finished 2nd in the NL, won 87 games (87-65-1), five Hall of Famers on the team.

1B Bill Terry, HoF, . 349, led league with 20 triples and 121 runs, 112 RBIs, 3rd in MVP voting, led league with 6.6 WAR, 1st in assists
2B Hughie Critz, .290 and Bill Hunnefield, .270 platoon
SS Travis Jackson, HoF, .310, 10 triples, 7th in MVP voting, led league in defensive WAR, 1st in fielding percentage and assists
3B Johnny Vergez, .278, 81 RBIs, 23rd in MVP voting, 4th in 3B range factor, 3rd in DPs, 4th in fielding percentage, 3rd in assists
LF Freddy Leach, .309, 30 doubles, 75 runs, 3rd in LF assists, 3rd in LF DPs
CF Mel Ott, HoF, .292, 29 HRs, 115 RBI, led league with 80 walks, and most HRs per AB, 4th in CF assists
RF Freddie Lindstrom, HoF, .300, struck out 12 times
C Shanty Hogan, .301, led league in intentional walks, 8th in most HRs per AB, 1st in catcher fielding %, 2nd in caught stealing

Their top three backups hit .328 (Chick Fullis), .329 (Ethan Allen) and .302 (Sam Leslie).

Pitchers led NL in ERA and included:

Carl Hubbell, HoF, 2.65 ERA, led league with 1.121 WHIP and fewest hits per 9 innings,
Bill Walker, led league in 2.26 ERA and six shutouts
Freddie Fitzsimmons, 25th in MVP voting, 18-11, 1.198 WHIP.
Clarence Mitchell, 13-11, 40 year old starter

Can't wait to see how the 2025 version compares...

Yeah, but give us the launch angles and exit velocities! :)

I'd rather know which five of the current team will make the Hall of Fame...

At this point, Verlander is the only guy….

Do you think Posey makes it into the HoF? RoY, MVP, 3x WS champs, 7x All Star, 5x Silver Slugger, etc. He's #14 on the JAWS list, the first 11 are in the HoF, the next two are Thurman Munson and Gene Tenace (who's not really a catcher). Catchers in the HoF with less JAWS than Posey include Buck Ewing, Roy Campanella, Roger Bresnahan, Josh Gibson, Ernie Lombardi, Ray Schalk and Rick Ferrell. BTW, Patrick Bailey is #479 on career catcher JAWS list. It's a good start... ;)

Yes, Posey will make the HOF (probably not on the first ballot).

[Giants]

Be interesting to see the Giants' starting eight in the field this year. I was mentally comparing them to the Giants of 1931, finished 2nd in the NL, won 87 games (87-65-1), five Hall of Famers on the team.

1B Bill Terry, HoF, . 349, led league with 20 triples and 121 runs, 112 RBIs, 3rd in MVP voting, led league with 6.6 WAR, 1st in assists
2B Hughie Critz, .290 and Bill Hunnefield, .270 platoon
SS Travis Jackson, HoF, .310, 10 triples, 7th in MVP voting, led league in defensive WAR, 1st in fielding percentage and assists
3B Johnny Vergez, .278, 81 RBIs, 23rd in MVP voting, 4th in 3B range factor, 3rd in DPs, 4th in fielding percentage, 3rd in assists
LF Freddy Leach, .309, 30 doubles, 75 runs, 3rd in LF assists, 3rd in LF DPs
CF Mel Ott, HoF, .292, 29 HRs, 115 RBI, led league with 80 walks, and most HRs per AB, 4th in CF assists
RF Freddie Lindstrom, HoF, .300, struck out 12 times
C Shanty Hogan, .301, led league in intentional walks, 8th in most HRs per AB, 1st in catcher fielding %, 2nd in caught stealing

Their top three backups hit .328 (Chick Fullis), .329 (Ethan Allen) and .302 (Sam Leslie).

Pitchers led NL in ERA and included:

Carl Hubbell, HoF, 2.65 ERA, led league with 1.121 WHIP and fewest hits per 9 innings,
Bill Walker, led league in 2.26 ERA and six shutouts
Freddie Fitzsimmons, 25th in MVP voting, 18-11, 1.198 WHIP.
Clarence Mitchell, 13-11, 40 year old starter

Can't wait to see how the 2025 version compares...

Yeah, but give us the launch angles and exit velocities! :)

I'd rather know which five of the current team will make the Hall of Fame...

At this point, Verlander is the only guy….

Do you think Posey makes it into the HoF? RoY, MVP, 3x WS champs, 7x All Star, 5x Silver Slugger, etc. He's #14 on the JAWS list, the first 11 are in the HoF, the next two are Thurman Munson and Gene Tenace (who's not really a catcher). Catchers in the HoF with less JAWS than Posey include Buck Ewing, Roy Campanella, Roger Bresnahan, Josh Gibson, Ernie Lombardi, Ray Schalk and Rick Ferrell. BTW, Patrick Bailey is #479 on career catcher JAWS list. It's a good start... ;)

Yes, Posey will make the HOF (probably not on the first ballot).

[Mick]

Giants are having a decent spring. I know spring training stats are worse than meaningless...but the Giants are 6-3, 1/2 game behind the A's and two games behind the Rockies...which tells you something about the importance of spring training games.

The players I had hoped would do well are succeeding. Chapman hasn't played much, but 1.300 OPS. Jung Hoo Lee, 1.147 OPS, five runs in seven games, hitting .412. Sam Huff, who I was hoping would get the backup catching job has a 1.086 OPS, hitting .308. Willy Adames, hitting .412 with a 1.062 OPS. And Jerar Encarnacion is at 1.000 OPS, hitting .360. Wisely, .375 / .912 OPS. Matos hitting .308/.808 OPS. All great.

Was hoping Flores would be able to come back. Maybe, we'll see. Hitting .267 / .933 OPS. Casey Schmitt, having his challenges, .208/.750 OPS, 7 K's.

Yaz. Big concern. hitting .125, 8 strikeouts in 16 ABs. Yikes. Luciano, hitting .105, Villar, .200 with 6 K's in 15 ABs. Team hitting, Giants are 14th in MLB, about average, about the same as last year. 4th most strikeouts in MLB. Again. 8th most HRs. They don't have a triple in 12 games.

On the other hand...Giants have the third best WHIP and 4th best ERA in MLB. That's good. 15 of their pitchers haven't given up a run yet; among them Robbie Ray, Whisenhunt, Winn, Hicks, Roupp, Teng, Ragsdale. Bivens and Logan Webb, sub 2.00 ERA. Birdsong, Romero, Burgos, sub 3.00 ERA. Both Doval and Walker are exactly 3.00 ERA. Tyler Rogers is 4.50, but he'll come around. Carson Seymour and Verlander are 4.50.

Struggling are Hjelle and Waites (6.75), McDonald (8.10), Tristan Beck and Seth Lonsway (9.00 ERA), and bringing up the rear, Kyle Harrison (12.27) and shipped-to-the-minors Mason Black (13.50).

[Mick]

Giants are having a decent spring. I know spring training stats are worse than meaningless...but the Giants are 6-3, 1/2 game behind the A's and two games behind the Rockies...which tells you something about the importance of spring training games.

The players I had hoped would do well are succeeding. Chapman hasn't played much, but 1.300 OPS. Jung Hoo Lee, 1.147 OPS, five runs in seven games, hitting .412. Sam Huff, who I was hoping would get the backup catching job has a 1.086 OPS, hitting .308. Willy Adames, hitting .412 with a 1.062 OPS. And Jerar Encarnacion is at 1.000 OPS, hitting .360. Wisely, .375 / .912 OPS. Matos hitting .308/.808 OPS. All great.

Was hoping Flores would be able to come back. Maybe, we'll see. Hitting .267 / .933 OPS. Casey Schmitt, having his challenges, .208/.750 OPS, 7 K's.

Yaz. Big concern. hitting .125, 8 strikeouts in 16 ABs. Yikes. Luciano, hitting .105, Villar, .200 with 6 K's in 15 ABs. Team hitting, Giants are 14th in MLB, about average, about the same as last year. 4th most strikeouts in MLB. Again. 8th most HRs. They don't have a triple in 12 games.

On the other hand...Giants have the third best WHIP and 4th best ERA in MLB. That's good. 15 of their pitchers haven't given up a run yet; among them Robbie Ray, Whisenhunt, Winn, Hicks, Roupp, Teng, Ragsdale. Bivens and Logan Webb, sub 2.00 ERA. Birdsong, Romero, Burgos, sub 3.00 ERA. Both Doval and Walker are exactly 3.00 ERA. Tyler Rogers is 4.50, but he'll come around. Carson Seymour and Verlander are 4.50.

Struggling are Hjelle and Waites (6.75), McDonald (8.10), Tristan Beck and Seth Lonsway (9.00 ERA), and bringing up the rear, Kyle Harrison (12.27) and shipped-to-the-minors Mason Black (13.50).

[qwerty49]

I was at the game at the stadium at Talking Stick today. Beautiful facilities which I believe are shared by both the Diamondbacks and the Rockies.

Giants pretty much scored at will, although both Yaz and Encarnacion K’d looking, ending potentially big innings with 2 runners on.

Kyle Harrison started for SF, faced 7 batters, got one out (a sac fly) and allowed 5 runs. That did wonders for his ERA.  The last 2 hits, a 456-ft 3-run dinger and a laser triple right in front of the wall in right center, were outright violent.

One of the SF relievers looked really sharp. I think his name was Harris and he wore uniform #74. Giants had a lot of guys with um, unconventional uniform numbers.

Lots of Giants fans in the house. Tix seemed pricey — but our $52 seats were good value compared to the $116 seats just 6-7 rows in front of us.

[qwerty49]

I was at the game at the stadium at Talking Stick today. Beautiful facilities which I believe are shared by both the Diamondbacks and the Rockies.

Giants pretty much scored at will, although both Yaz and Encarnacion K’d looking, ending potentially big innings with 2 runners on.

Kyle Harrison started for SF, faced 7 batters, got one out (a sac fly) and allowed 5 runs. That did wonders for his ERA.  The last 2 hits, a 456-ft 3-run dinger and a laser triple right in front of the wall in right center, were outright violent.

One of the SF relievers looked really sharp. I think his name was Harris and he wore uniform #74. Giants had a lot of guys with um, unconventional uniform numbers.

Lots of Giants fans in the house. Tix seemed pricey — but our $52 seats were good value compared to the $116 seats just 6-7 rows in front of us.

[Mick]

I was at the game at the stadium at Talking Stick today. Beautiful facilities which I believe are shared by both the Diamondbacks and the Rockies.

Giants pretty much scored at will, although both Yaz and Encarnacion K’d looking, ending potentially big innings with 2 runners on.

Kyle Harrison started for SF, faced 7 batters, got one out (a sac fly) and allowed 5 runs. That did wonders for his ERA.  The last 2 hits, a 456-ft 3-run dinger and a laser triple right in front of the wall in right center, were outright violent.

One of the SF relievers looked really sharp. I think his name was Harris and he wore uniform #74. Giants had a lot of guys with um, unconventional uniform numbers.

Lots of Giants fans in the house. Tix seemed pricey — but our $52 seats were good value compared to the $116 seats just 6-7 rows in front of us.

Bob Melvin told reporters to take a good look at the starting lineup...implying that this may be the starting lineup and batting order when the season opens:

LaMonte Wade, 1B
Adames, SS
Lee, CF
Chapman, 3B
Ramos, LF
Bailey, C
Flores, DH
Yaz, RF
Fitzgerald, 2B (and it's hilarious that last year's Giants OPS leader is batting 9th).

[Mick]

I was at the game at the stadium at Talking Stick today. Beautiful facilities which I believe are shared by both the Diamondbacks and the Rockies.

Giants pretty much scored at will, although both Yaz and Encarnacion K’d looking, ending potentially big innings with 2 runners on.

Kyle Harrison started for SF, faced 7 batters, got one out (a sac fly) and allowed 5 runs. That did wonders for his ERA.  The last 2 hits, a 456-ft 3-run dinger and a laser triple right in front of the wall in right center, were outright violent.

One of the SF relievers looked really sharp. I think his name was Harris and he wore uniform #74. Giants had a lot of guys with um, unconventional uniform numbers.

Lots of Giants fans in the house. Tix seemed pricey — but our $52 seats were good value compared to the $116 seats just 6-7 rows in front of us.

Bob Melvin told reporters to take a good look at the starting lineup...implying that this may be the starting lineup and batting order when the season opens:

LaMonte Wade, 1B
Adames, SS
Lee, CF
Chapman, 3B
Ramos, LF
Bailey, C
Flores, DH
Yaz, RF
Fitzgerald, 2B (and it's hilarious that last year's Giants OPS leader is batting 9th).

[lex24]

I was at the game at the stadium at Talking Stick today. Beautiful facilities which I believe are shared by both the Diamondbacks and the Rockies.

Giants pretty much scored at will, although both Yaz and Encarnacion K’d looking, ending potentially big innings with 2 runners on.

Kyle Harrison started for SF, faced 7 batters, got one out (a sac fly) and allowed 5 runs. That did wonders for his ERA.  The last 2 hits, a 456-ft 3-run dinger and a laser triple right in front of the wall in right center, were outright violent.

One of the SF relievers looked really sharp. I think his name was Harris and he wore uniform #74. Giants had a lot of guys with um, unconventional uniform numbers.

Lots of Giants fans in the house. Tix seemed pricey — but our $52 seats were good value compared to the $116 seats just 6-7 rows in front of us.

Bob Melvin told reporters to take a good look at the starting lineup...implying that this may be the starting lineup and batting order when the season opens:

LaMonte Wade, 1B
Adames, SS
Lee, CF
Chapman, 3B
Ramos, LF
Bailey, C
Flores, DH
Yaz, RF
Fitzgerald, 2B (and it's hilarious that last year's Giants OPS leader is batting 9th).

Not hilarious at all.  In fact, it makes perfect sense. He’s a guy that strikes out a ton, there’s a question of whether he can repeat. And it’s very nice to have someone in the number nine slot with speed for when the lineup turns over.  If Fitz starts off real strong, I suspect he may move up in the order. Essentially against lefties.  

But ninth is where I’d have him to start the season.

[lex24]

I was at the game at the stadium at Talking Stick today. Beautiful facilities which I believe are shared by both the Diamondbacks and the Rockies.

Giants pretty much scored at will, although both Yaz and Encarnacion K’d looking, ending potentially big innings with 2 runners on.

Kyle Harrison started for SF, faced 7 batters, got one out (a sac fly) and allowed 5 runs. That did wonders for his ERA.  The last 2 hits, a 456-ft 3-run dinger and a laser triple right in front of the wall in right center, were outright violent.

One of the SF relievers looked really sharp. I think his name was Harris and he wore uniform #74. Giants had a lot of guys with um, unconventional uniform numbers.

Lots of Giants fans in the house. Tix seemed pricey — but our $52 seats were good value compared to the $116 seats just 6-7 rows in front of us.

Bob Melvin told reporters to take a good look at the starting lineup...implying that this may be the starting lineup and batting order when the season opens:

LaMonte Wade, 1B
Adames, SS
Lee, CF
Chapman, 3B
Ramos, LF
Bailey, C
Flores, DH
Yaz, RF
Fitzgerald, 2B (and it's hilarious that last year's Giants OPS leader is batting 9th).

Not hilarious at all.  In fact, it makes perfect sense. He’s a guy that strikes out a ton, there’s a question of whether he can repeat. And it’s very nice to have someone in the number nine slot with speed for when the lineup turns over.  If Fitz starts off real strong, I suspect he may move up in the order. Essentially against lefties.  

But ninth is where I’d have him to start the season.

[Mick]

Fitzgerald, 2B (and it's hilarious that last year's Giants OPS leader is batting 9th).

Not hilarious at all.  In fact, it makes perfect sense. He’s a guy that strikes out a ton, there’s a question of whether he can repeat. And it’s very nice to have someone in the number nine slot with speed for when the lineup turns over.  If Fitz starts off real strong, I suspect he may move up in the order. Essentially against lefties.  

But ninth is where I’d have him to start the season.

Makes sense. Had a great June and his batting average and OPS declined every month thereafter...although his last month it was still pretty good at .250/.302/.375/.679. Also, his split hitting 9th is .405/.450/.649/1.099, which reflects the fact that as he sees a pitcher more, he really improves. And he's struck out 6 times in 11 ABs this spring, though he's been hurt.

[Mick]

Fitzgerald, 2B (and it's hilarious that last year's Giants OPS leader is batting 9th).

Not hilarious at all.  In fact, it makes perfect sense. He’s a guy that strikes out a ton, there’s a question of whether he can repeat. And it’s very nice to have someone in the number nine slot with speed for when the lineup turns over.  If Fitz starts off real strong, I suspect he may move up in the order. Essentially against lefties.  

But ninth is where I’d have him to start the season.

Makes sense. Had a great June and his batting average and OPS declined every month thereafter...although his last month it was still pretty good at .250/.302/.375/.679. Also, his split hitting 9th is .405/.450/.649/1.099, which reflects the fact that as he sees a pitcher more, he really improves. And he's struck out 6 times in 11 ABs this spring, though he's been hurt.

[qwerty49]

I was at the game at the stadium at Talking Stick today. Beautiful facilities which I believe are shared by both the Diamondbacks and the Rockies.

Giants pretty much scored at will, although both Yaz and Encarnacion K’d looking, ending potentially big innings with 2 runners on.

Kyle Harrison started for SF, faced 7 batters, got one out (a sac fly) and allowed 5 runs. That did wonders for his ERA.  The last 2 hits, a 456-ft 3-run dinger and a laser triple right in front of the wall in right center, were outright violent.

One of the SF relievers looked really sharp. I think his name was Harris and he wore uniform #74. Giants had a lot of guys with um, unconventional uniform numbers.

Lots of Giants fans in the house. Tix seemed pricey — but our $52 seats were good value compared to the $116 seats just 6-7 rows in front of us.

Bob Melvin told reporters to take a good look at the starting lineup...implying that this may be the starting lineup and batting order when the season opens:

LaMonte Wade, 1B
Adames, SS
Lee, CF
Chapman, 3B
Ramos, LF
Bailey, C
Flores, DH
Yaz, RF
Fitzgerald, 2B (and it's hilarious that last year's Giants OPS leader is batting 9th).

Yeah, quite a bit different than the starting lineup we saw on Thursday -- only Adames, Chapman, Yaz IIRC.  Of course it's time to see the youngsters and it's still relatively early.  Chapman fouled a ball hard off his leg and was down for almost 5 minutes.  He got back in the box and walked on the next pitch, then they put a PR in for him. Schmitt made some nice plays at 2B and also tagged one deep.

[qwerty49]

I was at the game at the stadium at Talking Stick today. Beautiful facilities which I believe are shared by both the Diamondbacks and the Rockies.

Giants pretty much scored at will, although both Yaz and Encarnacion K’d looking, ending potentially big innings with 2 runners on.

Kyle Harrison started for SF, faced 7 batters, got one out (a sac fly) and allowed 5 runs. That did wonders for his ERA.  The last 2 hits, a 456-ft 3-run dinger and a laser triple right in front of the wall in right center, were outright violent.

One of the SF relievers looked really sharp. I think his name was Harris and he wore uniform #74. Giants had a lot of guys with um, unconventional uniform numbers.

Lots of Giants fans in the house. Tix seemed pricey — but our $52 seats were good value compared to the $116 seats just 6-7 rows in front of us.

Bob Melvin told reporters to take a good look at the starting lineup...implying that this may be the starting lineup and batting order when the season opens:

LaMonte Wade, 1B
Adames, SS
Lee, CF
Chapman, 3B
Ramos, LF
Bailey, C
Flores, DH
Yaz, RF
Fitzgerald, 2B (and it's hilarious that last year's Giants OPS leader is batting 9th).

Yeah, quite a bit different than the starting lineup we saw on Thursday -- only Adames, Chapman, Yaz IIRC.  Of course it's time to see the youngsters and it's still relatively early.  Chapman fouled a ball hard off his leg and was down for almost 5 minutes.  He got back in the box and walked on the next pitch, then they put a PR in for him. Schmitt made some nice plays at 2B and also tagged one deep.

[Mick]

Giants beat the Royals 7-3 and are now 8-3, third in the 15-team Cactus League, one in back of the Cubs, 1/2 in back of the Rockies. And they are second in all of MLB in run differential with the longest winning streak. Giants have just nine errors in 12 games, and six of the errors were by players not likely to make the big club.

Stanford's Erik Miller pitched a great inning, gave up one hit and struck out three. Soon-to-be-traded-or-released David Villar homered as did slow-starter Yaz and Chapman. The core pitchers threw a shutout, only the last pitcher gave up earned runs.

Giants 7-3 Royals (Mar 8, 2025) Box Score - ESPN

Landen Roupp is crushing it. I'm guessing he ends up the fifth starter.

[Mick]

Giants beat the Royals 7-3 and are now 8-3, third in the 15-team Cactus League, one in back of the Cubs, 1/2 in back of the Rockies. And they are second in all of MLB in run differential with the longest winning streak. Giants have just nine errors in 12 games, and six of the errors were by players not likely to make the big club.

Stanford's Erik Miller pitched a great inning, gave up one hit and struck out three. Soon-to-be-traded-or-released David Villar homered as did slow-starter Yaz and Chapman. The core pitchers threw a shutout, only the last pitcher gave up earned runs.

Giants 7-3 Royals (Mar 8, 2025) Box Score - ESPN

Landen Roupp is crushing it. I'm guessing he ends up the fifth starter.

[Giants]

Giants beat the Royals 7-3 and are now 8-3, third in the 15-team Cactus League, one in back of the Cubs, 1/2 in back of the Rockies. And they are second in all of MLB in run differential with the longest winning streak. Giants have just nine errors in 12 games, and six of the errors were by players not likely to make the big club.

Stanford's Erik Miller pitched a great inning, gave up one hit and struck out three. Soon-to-be-traded-or-released David Villar homered as did slow-starter Yaz and Chapman. The core pitchers threw a shutout, only the last pitcher gave up earned runs.

Giants 7-3 Royals (Mar 8, 2025) Box Score - ESPN

Landen Roupp is crushing it. I'm guessing he ends up the fifth starter.

Baggerly wrote an article suggesting Roupp is leading the pack for the #5 spot.  It appears Harrison and Birdsong might be headed to Sacramento.  As noted by Baggs, Sacramento might wind up with a five man rotation that is better than some big league teams.

I like the new look club. The emphasis on D and pitching rather than “hit a homer or strike out and who cares about defense and pitching” is a refreshing change.

[Giants]

Giants beat the Royals 7-3 and are now 8-3, third in the 15-team Cactus League, one in back of the Cubs, 1/2 in back of the Rockies. And they are second in all of MLB in run differential with the longest winning streak. Giants have just nine errors in 12 games, and six of the errors were by players not likely to make the big club.

Stanford's Erik Miller pitched a great inning, gave up one hit and struck out three. Soon-to-be-traded-or-released David Villar homered as did slow-starter Yaz and Chapman. The core pitchers threw a shutout, only the last pitcher gave up earned runs.

Giants 7-3 Royals (Mar 8, 2025) Box Score - ESPN

Landen Roupp is crushing it. I'm guessing he ends up the fifth starter.

Baggerly wrote an article suggesting Roupp is leading the pack for the #5 spot.  It appears Harrison and Birdsong might be headed to Sacramento.  As noted by Baggs, Sacramento might wind up with a five man rotation that is better than some big league teams.

I like the new look club. The emphasis on D and pitching rather than “hit a homer or strike out and who cares about defense and pitching” is a refreshing change.

[lex24]

Giants beat the Royals 7-3 and are now 8-3, third in the 15-team Cactus League, one in back of the Cubs, 1/2 in back of the Rockies. And they are second in all of MLB in run differential with the longest winning streak. Giants have just nine errors in 12 games, and six of the errors were by players not likely to make the big club.

Stanford's Erik Miller pitched a great inning, gave up one hit and struck out three. Soon-to-be-traded-or-released David Villar homered as did slow-starter Yaz and Chapman. The core pitchers threw a shutout, only the last pitcher gave up earned runs.

Giants 7-3 Royals (Mar 8, 2025) Box Score - ESPN

Landen Roupp is crushing it. I'm guessing he ends up the fifth starter.

Baggerly wrote an article suggesting Roupp is leading the pack for the #5 spot.  It appears Harrison and Birdsong might be headed to Sacramento.  As noted by Baggs, Sacramento might wind up with a five man rotation that is better than some big league teams.

I like the new look club.  The emphasis on D and pitching rather than “hit a homer or strike out and who cares about defense and pitching” is a refreshing change.

Giants have a lot of depth in their young potential starters;

Roupp
Harrison
Birdsong
Ragsdale
Seymour 
Whisenhunt
Black
Winn

I suspect all with the possible exception of Whisenhunt (who is not on the 40) will at one time or another, be in SF this year.  Whether it’s starting or out of the pen.  They will use upwards of 25 pitchers.

I’m hoping at least 1 of the potential starters emerges as a potential top end rotation candidate.

[lex24]

Giants beat the Royals 7-3 and are now 8-3, third in the 15-team Cactus League, one in back of the Cubs, 1/2 in back of the Rockies. And they are second in all of MLB in run differential with the longest winning streak. Giants have just nine errors in 12 games, and six of the errors were by players not likely to make the big club.

Stanford's Erik Miller pitched a great inning, gave up one hit and struck out three. Soon-to-be-traded-or-released David Villar homered as did slow-starter Yaz and Chapman. The core pitchers threw a shutout, only the last pitcher gave up earned runs.

Giants 7-3 Royals (Mar 8, 2025) Box Score - ESPN

Landen Roupp is crushing it. I'm guessing he ends up the fifth starter.

Baggerly wrote an article suggesting Roupp is leading the pack for the #5 spot.  It appears Harrison and Birdsong might be headed to Sacramento.  As noted by Baggs, Sacramento might wind up with a five man rotation that is better than some big league teams.

I like the new look club.  The emphasis on D and pitching rather than “hit a homer or strike out and who cares about defense and pitching” is a refreshing change.

Giants have a lot of depth in their young potential starters;

Roupp
Harrison
Birdsong
Ragsdale
Seymour 
Whisenhunt
Black
Winn

I suspect all with the possible exception of Whisenhunt (who is not on the 40) will at one time or another, be in SF this year.  Whether it’s starting or out of the pen.  They will use upwards of 25 pitchers.

I’m hoping at least 1 of the potential starters emerges as a potential top end rotation candidate.

[Mick]

Not that it matters -- and it really doesn't in the spring -- the Giants are in 2nd place alone after the Rockies' loss. 2nd of 15 in the Cactus League. Not bad. Interestingly, the Padres are in last place, D'Backs are in 11th. Hope it carries over. 

Other completely useless and yet entertaining stats:

- Giants have second best ERA in MLB at 3.59
- Giants lead all of MLB in WHIP at 1.16
- Feeding that low WHIP is an astonishingly low number of walks, 31. Not only do they have the fewest walks in spring training in all of MLB, but they have the fewest by A LOT...next best are the Rangers with 47.
- Their strikeout/walk ratio is best in MLB at an almost comical 4.55:1. next best are the Royals at 3.17 to 1. 
- Giant pitchers have given up T4th fewest HRs in spring training with 11.
- The pitchers have struck out the 8th most batters with 141.
- But the Giant pitchers have the most strikeouts per 9 innings at 10.32 (Giants have only played 14 games including split squad games only the Orioles have played fewer at 13
- They have given up a lot of home runs, 11, 21st best in MLB
- Giants are third best in holds with 25.
- Odd stat: Giants have balked the most this spring, with 3.

This team can really pitch.

Funny aside: Verlander gave up his home run off of a hanging slider. Logan Webb told him not to worry about pitch shapes and ball movement in the cactus league because the ball doesn't move as much. Over the past four spring trainings, curves and knuckle curves have dropped almost an inch less in Cactus League than in the Grapefruit League. Florida air is denser than Arizona air and Arizona ballparks average 1,000 feet more elevation than Florida ballparks, ergo air is thinner, ergo decreased drag force. At least, that's what this guy says:

The Baseball Moves Differently in the Cactus League | FanGraphs Baseball

More on effects of altitude on ball movement:

Baseball At High Altitude

---

Hitting stats ranking of 30 MLB teams: 

- Giants have 4th most home runs behind Brewers, Guardians and Rangers, tied with the Yankees and Phillies.
- 24th most walks. Ouch.
- 12th most runs scored.
- 7th highest BA
- 10th highest OBP
- 7th highest slugging average
- 6th best OPS at .812, and best in the Cactus League
- 6th best BABIP (batting average on balls in play)
- One of three teams that still doesn't have a triple
- 17th best in stolen bases (they were 28th best 10 days ago)
- T4th fewest grounded into double plays
- 4th fewest at bats per home run

Adds up to the best run differential in MLB. 

Maybe it will be a special season.

[Mick]

Not that it matters -- and it really doesn't in the spring -- the Giants are in 2nd place alone after the Rockies' loss. 2nd of 15 in the Cactus League. Not bad. Interestingly, the Padres are in last place, D'Backs are in 11th. Hope it carries over. 

Other completely useless and yet entertaining stats:

- Giants have second best ERA in MLB at 3.59
- Giants lead all of MLB in WHIP at 1.16
- Feeding that low WHIP is an astonishingly low number of walks, 31. Not only do they have the fewest walks in spring training in all of MLB, but they have the fewest by A LOT...next best are the Rangers with 47.
- Their strikeout/walk ratio is best in MLB at an almost comical 4.55:1. next best are the Royals at 3.17 to 1. 
- Giant pitchers have given up T4th fewest HRs in spring training with 11.
- The pitchers have struck out the 8th most batters with 141.
- But the Giant pitchers have the most strikeouts per 9 innings at 10.32 (Giants have only played 14 games including split squad games only the Orioles have played fewer at 13
- They have given up a lot of home runs, 11, 21st best in MLB
- Giants are third best in holds with 25.
- Odd stat: Giants have balked the most this spring, with 3.

This team can really pitch.

Funny aside: Verlander gave up his home run off of a hanging slider. Logan Webb told him not to worry about pitch shapes and ball movement in the cactus league because the ball doesn't move as much. Over the past four spring trainings, curves and knuckle curves have dropped almost an inch less in Cactus League than in the Grapefruit League. Florida air is denser than Arizona air and Arizona ballparks average 1,000 feet more elevation than Florida ballparks, ergo air is thinner, ergo decreased drag force. At least, that's what this guy says:

The Baseball Moves Differently in the Cactus League | FanGraphs Baseball

More on effects of altitude on ball movement:

Baseball At High Altitude

---

Hitting stats ranking of 30 MLB teams: 

- Giants have 4th most home runs behind Brewers, Guardians and Rangers, tied with the Yankees and Phillies.
- 24th most walks. Ouch.
- 12th most runs scored.
- 7th highest BA
- 10th highest OBP
- 7th highest slugging average
- 6th best OPS at .812, and best in the Cactus League
- 6th best BABIP (batting average on balls in play)
- One of three teams that still doesn't have a triple
- 17th best in stolen bases (they were 28th best 10 days ago)
- T4th fewest grounded into double plays
- 4th fewest at bats per home run

Adds up to the best run differential in MLB. 

Maybe it will be a special season.

[Mick]

The Giants are in 1st place alone after beating the Cubs. 1st of 15 in the Cactus League. Not bad. Interestingly, the Padres are in last place, D'Backs are in 11th. Hope it carries over. 

Other completely useless and yet entertaining stats. Out of all the 30 teams in MLB:

Hitting stats ranking of 30 MLB teams: 

- Giants have most home runs with 27.
- 15th most walks with 64.
- 7th most runs scored with 96…tied with the Dodgers, who have played two more games.
- 6th highest BA at .271
- 5th highest OBP at .357
- 4th highest slugging average at .477
- 4th best OPS at .834
- 6th best BABIP (batting average on balls in play)
- 17th best in stolen bases (they were 28th best 10 days ago)
- T4th fewest grounded into double plays
- 4th fewest at bats per home run
 
2025 MLB Team Hitting Stat Leaders | MLB.com

Pitching stats ranking of 30 MLB teams: 

- Giants have 4th best ERA in MLB at 3.77
- Giants lead all of MLB in WHIP at 1.21
- Feeding that low WHIP is an astonishingly low number of walks, 36. Not only do they have the fewest walks in spring training in all of MLB, but they have the fewest by A LOT...next best are the Royals with 52.
- Their strikeout/walk ratio is best in MLB at an almost comical 4.31:1. next best are the Royals at 3.02 to 1. 
- Giant pitchers have given up T5th fewest HRs in spring training with 13..and the four teams in front of them play in the Florida Grapefruit League (harder to hit HRs there).
- The pitchers have struck out the 7th most batters with 155.
- But the Giant pitchers have the sixth most strikeouts per 9 innings at 9.89 (Giants have only played 16 games including split squad games)
- They have not given up a lot of home runs, 13, 5th best in MLB
- Giants are third best in holds with 26.
- Odd stat: Giants have balked the most this spring, with 3.

This team can really pitch.
 
2025 MLB Team Pitching Stat Leaders | MLB.com

Adds up to the best run differential in MLB, +34 and MLB’s best spring training record at 10-3. They’ve won eight of their last nine.
 
2025 MLB Standings and Records: Spring Training | MLB.com

Maybe it will be a special season.

As an aside, Joey Bart had the highest OPS on the Pirates last year with .799 and highest OPS+ with 120 (both figures better than Pittsburgh's All-Star AND former Giant Bryan Reynolds). This spring, he has Pittsburgh's third highest OPS at 1.278, also the most hits, second most home runs, second most RBIs. Glad to see he's crushing it.

[Mick]

The Giants are in 1st place alone after beating the Cubs. 1st of 15 in the Cactus League. Not bad. Interestingly, the Padres are in last place, D'Backs are in 11th. Hope it carries over. 

Other completely useless and yet entertaining stats. Out of all the 30 teams in MLB:

Hitting stats ranking of 30 MLB teams: 

- Giants have most home runs with 27.
- 15th most walks with 64.
- 7th most runs scored with 96…tied with the Dodgers, who have played two more games.
- 6th highest BA at .271
- 5th highest OBP at .357
- 4th highest slugging average at .477
- 4th best OPS at .834
- 6th best BABIP (batting average on balls in play)
- 17th best in stolen bases (they were 28th best 10 days ago)
- T4th fewest grounded into double plays
- 4th fewest at bats per home run
 
2025 MLB Team Hitting Stat Leaders | MLB.com

Pitching stats ranking of 30 MLB teams: 

- Giants have 4th best ERA in MLB at 3.77
- Giants lead all of MLB in WHIP at 1.21
- Feeding that low WHIP is an astonishingly low number of walks, 36. Not only do they have the fewest walks in spring training in all of MLB, but they have the fewest by A LOT...next best are the Royals with 52.
- Their strikeout/walk ratio is best in MLB at an almost comical 4.31:1. next best are the Royals at 3.02 to 1. 
- Giant pitchers have given up T5th fewest HRs in spring training with 13..and the four teams in front of them play in the Florida Grapefruit League (harder to hit HRs there).
- The pitchers have struck out the 7th most batters with 155.
- But the Giant pitchers have the sixth most strikeouts per 9 innings at 9.89 (Giants have only played 16 games including split squad games)
- They have not given up a lot of home runs, 13, 5th best in MLB
- Giants are third best in holds with 26.
- Odd stat: Giants have balked the most this spring, with 3.

This team can really pitch.
 
2025 MLB Team Pitching Stat Leaders | MLB.com

Adds up to the best run differential in MLB, +34 and MLB’s best spring training record at 10-3. They’ve won eight of their last nine.
 
2025 MLB Standings and Records: Spring Training | MLB.com

Maybe it will be a special season.

As an aside, Joey Bart had the highest OPS on the Pirates last year with .799 and highest OPS+ with 120 (both figures better than Pittsburgh's All-Star AND former Giant Bryan Reynolds). This spring, he has Pittsburgh's third highest OPS at 1.278, also the most hits, second most home runs, second most RBIs. Glad to see he's crushing it.

[cardcrimson]

The Giants are in 1st place alone after beating the Cubs. 1st of 15 in the Cactus League. Not bad. Interestingly, the Padres are in last place, D'Backs are in 11th. Hope it carries over. 

Other completely useless and yet entertaining stats. Out of all the 30 teams in MLB:

Hitting stats ranking of 30 MLB teams: 

- Giants have most home runs with 27.
- 15th most walks with 64.
- 7th most runs scored with 96…tied with the Dodgers, who have played two more games.
- 6th highest BA at .271
- 5th highest OBP at .357
- 4th highest slugging average at .477
- 4th best OPS at .834
- 6th best BABIP (batting average on balls in play)
- 17th best in stolen bases (they were 28th best 10 days ago)
- T4th fewest grounded into double plays
- 4th fewest at bats per home run
 
2025 MLB Team Hitting Stat Leaders | MLB.com

Pitching stats ranking of 30 MLB teams: 

- Giants have 4th best ERA in MLB at 3.77
- Giants lead all of MLB in WHIP at 1.21
- Feeding that low WHIP is an astonishingly low number of walks, 36. Not only do they have the fewest walks in spring training in all of MLB, but they have the fewest by A LOT...next best are the Royals with 52.
- Their strikeout/walk ratio is best in MLB at an almost comical 4.31:1. next best are the Royals at 3.02 to 1. 
- Giant pitchers have given up T5th fewest HRs in spring training with 13..and the four teams in front of them play in the Florida Grapefruit League (harder to hit HRs there).
- The pitchers have struck out the 7th most batters with 155.
- But the Giant pitchers have the sixth most strikeouts per 9 innings at 9.89 (Giants have only played 16 games including split squad games)
- They have not given up a lot of home runs, 13, 5th best in MLB
- Giants are third best in holds with 26.
- Odd stat: Giants have balked the most this spring, with 3.

This team can really pitch.
 
2025 MLB Team Pitching Stat Leaders | MLB.com

Adds up to the best run differential in MLB, +34 and MLB’s best spring training record at 10-3. They’ve won eight of their last nine.
 
2025 MLB Standings and Records: Spring Training | MLB.com

Maybe it will be a special season.

As an aside, Joey Bart had the highest OPS on the Pirates last year with .799 and highest OPS+ with 120 (both figures better than Pittsburgh's All-Star AND former Giant Bryan Reynolds). This spring, he has Pittsburgh's third highest OPS at 1.278, also the most hits, second most home runs, second most RBIs. Glad to see he's crushing it.

Please don't jinx anything. . ..

[cardcrimson]

The Giants are in 1st place alone after beating the Cubs. 1st of 15 in the Cactus League. Not bad. Interestingly, the Padres are in last place, D'Backs are in 11th. Hope it carries over. 

Other completely useless and yet entertaining stats. Out of all the 30 teams in MLB:

Hitting stats ranking of 30 MLB teams: 

- Giants have most home runs with 27.
- 15th most walks with 64.
- 7th most runs scored with 96…tied with the Dodgers, who have played two more games.
- 6th highest BA at .271
- 5th highest OBP at .357
- 4th highest slugging average at .477
- 4th best OPS at .834
- 6th best BABIP (batting average on balls in play)
- 17th best in stolen bases (they were 28th best 10 days ago)
- T4th fewest grounded into double plays
- 4th fewest at bats per home run
 
2025 MLB Team Hitting Stat Leaders | MLB.com

Pitching stats ranking of 30 MLB teams: 

- Giants have 4th best ERA in MLB at 3.77
- Giants lead all of MLB in WHIP at 1.21
- Feeding that low WHIP is an astonishingly low number of walks, 36. Not only do they have the fewest walks in spring training in all of MLB, but they have the fewest by A LOT...next best are the Royals with 52.
- Their strikeout/walk ratio is best in MLB at an almost comical 4.31:1. next best are the Royals at 3.02 to 1. 
- Giant pitchers have given up T5th fewest HRs in spring training with 13..and the four teams in front of them play in the Florida Grapefruit League (harder to hit HRs there).
- The pitchers have struck out the 7th most batters with 155.
- But the Giant pitchers have the sixth most strikeouts per 9 innings at 9.89 (Giants have only played 16 games including split squad games)
- They have not given up a lot of home runs, 13, 5th best in MLB
- Giants are third best in holds with 26.
- Odd stat: Giants have balked the most this spring, with 3.

This team can really pitch.
 
2025 MLB Team Pitching Stat Leaders | MLB.com

Adds up to the best run differential in MLB, +34 and MLB’s best spring training record at 10-3. They’ve won eight of their last nine.
 
2025 MLB Standings and Records: Spring Training | MLB.com

Maybe it will be a special season.

As an aside, Joey Bart had the highest OPS on the Pirates last year with .799 and highest OPS+ with 120 (both figures better than Pittsburgh's All-Star AND former Giant Bryan Reynolds). This spring, he has Pittsburgh's third highest OPS at 1.278, also the most hits, second most home runs, second most RBIs. Glad to see he's crushing it.

Please don't jinx anything. . ..

[Mick]

Please don't jinx anything. . ..

Justin Verlander believes the Giants could "sneak up on people..."

San Francisco Giants Veteran Believes Team 'Could Sneak Up on Some People' This Year

“I genuinely think that this team could sneak up on some people,” Verlander said per Baggarly. “The expectations ... I don’t think they’re as high right now. And if you take a real objective look at things, from some guys we brought in, the maturity of some guys, the new health of some guys, they’re all big pieces. I think there’s a chance that we do something special.”

[Mick]

Please don't jinx anything. . ..

Justin Verlander believes the Giants could "sneak up on people..."

San Francisco Giants Veteran Believes Team 'Could Sneak Up on Some People' This Year

“I genuinely think that this team could sneak up on some people,” Verlander said per Baggarly. “The expectations ... I don’t think they’re as high right now. And if you take a real objective look at things, from some guys we brought in, the maturity of some guys, the new health of some guys, they’re all big pieces. I think there’s a chance that we do something special.”