[Mick]

[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

[Mick]

[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

[Giants]

1736009752[/url]']
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

Drafted out of HS, he will be 21 this season with only one year of professional experience.  Something isn’t adding up….

[Giants]

1736009752[/url]']
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

Drafted out of HS, he will be 21 this season with only one year of professional experience.  Something isn’t adding up….

[Mick]

1736009752[/url]']
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

Drafted out of HS, he will be 21 this season with only one year of professional experience.  Something isn’t adding up….

Not a big mystery. He played in the 2022-2023 high school season when he was 19, which you're allowed to do. He was a May birthday, late, and my guess is his parents started him late rather than really early. The Giants picked him in the 2nd round of the July 2023 draft. I suspect he worked out in the SF Giants camp, then started in A ball in 2024.

He had actually committed to Arkansas as a baseball player. As a quarterback, he'd thrown for 34 touchdowns and 2,076 yards as a senior.

[Mick]

1736009752[/url]']
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

Drafted out of HS, he will be 21 this season with only one year of professional experience.  Something isn’t adding up….

Not a big mystery. He played in the 2022-2023 high school season when he was 19, which you're allowed to do. He was a May birthday, late, and my guess is his parents started him late rather than really early. The Giants picked him in the 2nd round of the July 2023 draft. I suspect he worked out in the SF Giants camp, then started in A ball in 2024.

He had actually committed to Arkansas as a baseball player. As a quarterback, he'd thrown for 34 touchdowns and 2,076 yards as a senior.

[Mick]

Would you trade LaMonte Wade (an unrestricted free agent next year) even up for three-time All-Star (and former Giant minor leaguer) Luis Castillo? He was the Opening Day starter for the Mariners last year, and the opposite (sort of) of Bumgarner, Lincecum and Cain in that he didn't really hit his stride until he turned 30 (though he's had a solid ERA all along). All Star in 2022 and 2023, 5th in Cy Young voting in 2023, WHIP of less than 1.100 between 2022 and 2024.

He'll be 33 in 2025. Wade will be 31.

Luis Castillo Minor Leagues Statistics | Baseball-Reference.com

LaMonte Wade Jr. Stats, Height, Weight, Position, Rookie Status & More | Baseball-Reference.com

[Mick]

Would you trade LaMonte Wade (an unrestricted free agent next year) even up for three-time All-Star (and former Giant minor leaguer) Luis Castillo? He was the Opening Day starter for the Mariners last year, and the opposite (sort of) of Bumgarner, Lincecum and Cain in that he didn't really hit his stride until he turned 30 (though he's had a solid ERA all along). All Star in 2022 and 2023, 5th in Cy Young voting in 2023, WHIP of less than 1.100 between 2022 and 2024.

He'll be 33 in 2025. Wade will be 31.

Luis Castillo Minor Leagues Statistics | Baseball-Reference.com

LaMonte Wade Jr. Stats, Height, Weight, Position, Rookie Status & More | Baseball-Reference.com

[lex24]

Would you trade LaMonte Wade (an unrestricted free agent next year) even up for three-time All-Star (and former Giant minor leaguer) Luis Castillo? He was the Opening Day starter for the Mariners last year, and the opposite (sort of) of Bumgarner, Lincecum and Cain in that he didn't really hit his stride until he turned 30 (though he's had a solid ERA all along). All Star in 2022 and 2023, 5th in Cy Young voting in 2023, WHIP of less than 1.100 between 2022 and 2024.

He'll be 33 in 2025. Wade will be 31.

Luis Castillo Minor Leagues Statistics | Baseball-Reference.com

LaMonte Wade Jr. Stats, Height, Weight, Position, Rookie Status & More | Baseball-Reference.com

Yes.  But there is no way the Mariners would accept that.  It will take much more than Wade to get Castillo.

[lex24]

Would you trade LaMonte Wade (an unrestricted free agent next year) even up for three-time All-Star (and former Giant minor leaguer) Luis Castillo? He was the Opening Day starter for the Mariners last year, and the opposite (sort of) of Bumgarner, Lincecum and Cain in that he didn't really hit his stride until he turned 30 (though he's had a solid ERA all along). All Star in 2022 and 2023, 5th in Cy Young voting in 2023, WHIP of less than 1.100 between 2022 and 2024.

He'll be 33 in 2025. Wade will be 31.

Luis Castillo Minor Leagues Statistics | Baseball-Reference.com

LaMonte Wade Jr. Stats, Height, Weight, Position, Rookie Status & More | Baseball-Reference.com

Yes.  But there is no way the Mariners would accept that.  It will take much more than Wade to get Castillo.

[Giants]

Would you trade LaMonte Wade (an unrestricted free agent next year) even up for three-time All-Star (and former Giant minor leaguer) Luis Castillo? He was the Opening Day starter for the Mariners last year, and the opposite (sort of) of Bumgarner, Lincecum and Cain in that he didn't really hit his stride until he turned 30 (though he's had a solid ERA all along). All Star in 2022 and 2023, 5th in Cy Young voting in 2023, WHIP of less than 1.100 between 2022 and 2024.

He'll be 33 in 2025. Wade will be 31.

Luis Castillo Minor Leagues Statistics | Baseball-Reference.com

LaMonte Wade Jr. Stats, Height, Weight, Position, Rookie Status & More | Baseball-Reference.com

No.  Based on the following article, I would have no interest in trading for Castillo. 

—

From today’s The Athletic (by Ken Rosenthal) regarding Castillo’s trade value…..

“Here are the problems:

Castillo’s average fastball velocity declined from 97 mph in 2022 to 96.1 in ‘23 to 95.6 in 2024.

His strikeout rate dropped from 27.3 in ‘23 to 24.3 percent last season.

He has been a far better pitcher at (2.89 ERA) than on the road (4.06) since joining Seattle.

Castillo’s $22.75 million salaries in each of the next three seasons hardly seem excessive at a time when free agents such as the oft-injured Alex Cobb and 41-year old Morton are commanding $15 million on one-year deals.

On the other hand, Castillo’s contract includes a conditional option that would enable his team to retain him for $5 million in 2028 if he is on the injured list from 2025 to ‘27 for more than 130 consecutive days due to an operation stemming from a UCL surgery.

The mere fact that the Mariners included that clause in Castillo’s extension is additional cause for concern.”

[Giants]

Would you trade LaMonte Wade (an unrestricted free agent next year) even up for three-time All-Star (and former Giant minor leaguer) Luis Castillo? He was the Opening Day starter for the Mariners last year, and the opposite (sort of) of Bumgarner, Lincecum and Cain in that he didn't really hit his stride until he turned 30 (though he's had a solid ERA all along). All Star in 2022 and 2023, 5th in Cy Young voting in 2023, WHIP of less than 1.100 between 2022 and 2024.

He'll be 33 in 2025. Wade will be 31.

Luis Castillo Minor Leagues Statistics | Baseball-Reference.com

LaMonte Wade Jr. Stats, Height, Weight, Position, Rookie Status & More | Baseball-Reference.com

No.  Based on the following article, I would have no interest in trading for Castillo. 

—

From today’s The Athletic (by Ken Rosenthal) regarding Castillo’s trade value…..

“Here are the problems:

Castillo’s average fastball velocity declined from 97 mph in 2022 to 96.1 in ‘23 to 95.6 in 2024.

His strikeout rate dropped from 27.3 in ‘23 to 24.3 percent last season.

He has been a far better pitcher at (2.89 ERA) than on the road (4.06) since joining Seattle.

Castillo’s $22.75 million salaries in each of the next three seasons hardly seem excessive at a time when free agents such as the oft-injured Alex Cobb and 41-year old Morton are commanding $15 million on one-year deals.

On the other hand, Castillo’s contract includes a conditional option that would enable his team to retain him for $5 million in 2028 if he is on the injured list from 2025 to ‘27 for more than 130 consecutive days due to an operation stemming from a UCL surgery.

The mere fact that the Mariners included that clause in Castillo’s extension is additional cause for concern.”

[lex24]

Would you trade LaMonte Wade (an unrestricted free agent next year) even up for three-time All-Star (and former Giant minor leaguer) Luis Castillo? He was the Opening Day starter for the Mariners last year, and the opposite (sort of) of Bumgarner, Lincecum and Cain in that he didn't really hit his stride until he turned 30 (though he's had a solid ERA all along). All Star in 2022 and 2023, 5th in Cy Young voting in 2023, WHIP of less than 1.100 between 2022 and 2024.

He'll be 33 in 2025. Wade will be 31.

Luis Castillo Minor Leagues Statistics | Baseball-Reference.com

LaMonte Wade Jr. Stats, Height, Weight, Position, Rookie Status & More | Baseball-Reference.com

No.  Based on the following article, I would have no interest in trading for Castillo. 

—

From today’s The Athletic (by Ken Rosenthal) regarding Castillo’s trade value…..

“Here are the problems:

Castillo’s average fastball velocity declined from 97 mph in 2022 to 96.1 in ‘23 to 95.6 in 2024.

His strikeout rate dropped from 27.3 in ‘23 to 24.3 percent last season.

He has been a far better pitcher at (2.89 ERA) than on the road (4.06) since joining Seattle.

Castillo’s $22.75 million salaries in each of the next three seasons hardly seem excessive at a time when free agents such as the oft-injured Alex Cobb and 41-year old Morton are commanding $15 million on one-year deals.

On the other hand, Castillo’s contract includes a conditional option that would enable his team to retain him for $5 million in 2028 if he is on the injured list from 2025 to ‘27 for more than 130 consecutive days due to an operation stemming from a UCL surgery.

The mere fact that the Mariners included that clause in Castillo’s extension is additional cause for concern.”

Castillo for Wade is a steal.  And unrealistic.  Boston supposedly turned down Casas.  Who is younger and a much better power hitter than Wade. No way they would trade Castillo for Wade.

[lex24]

Would you trade LaMonte Wade (an unrestricted free agent next year) even up for three-time All-Star (and former Giant minor leaguer) Luis Castillo? He was the Opening Day starter for the Mariners last year, and the opposite (sort of) of Bumgarner, Lincecum and Cain in that he didn't really hit his stride until he turned 30 (though he's had a solid ERA all along). All Star in 2022 and 2023, 5th in Cy Young voting in 2023, WHIP of less than 1.100 between 2022 and 2024.

He'll be 33 in 2025. Wade will be 31.

Luis Castillo Minor Leagues Statistics | Baseball-Reference.com

LaMonte Wade Jr. Stats, Height, Weight, Position, Rookie Status & More | Baseball-Reference.com

No.  Based on the following article, I would have no interest in trading for Castillo. 

—

From today’s The Athletic (by Ken Rosenthal) regarding Castillo’s trade value…..

“Here are the problems:

Castillo’s average fastball velocity declined from 97 mph in 2022 to 96.1 in ‘23 to 95.6 in 2024.

His strikeout rate dropped from 27.3 in ‘23 to 24.3 percent last season.

He has been a far better pitcher at (2.89 ERA) than on the road (4.06) since joining Seattle.

Castillo’s $22.75 million salaries in each of the next three seasons hardly seem excessive at a time when free agents such as the oft-injured Alex Cobb and 41-year old Morton are commanding $15 million on one-year deals.

On the other hand, Castillo’s contract includes a conditional option that would enable his team to retain him for $5 million in 2028 if he is on the injured list from 2025 to ‘27 for more than 130 consecutive days due to an operation stemming from a UCL surgery.

The mere fact that the Mariners included that clause in Castillo’s extension is additional cause for concern.”

Castillo for Wade is a steal.  And unrealistic.  Boston supposedly turned down Casas.  Who is younger and a much better power hitter than Wade. No way they would trade Castillo for Wade.

[Mick]

We just got 42 year old Justin Verlander. Two years removed from the Cy Young, but a 5.48 ERA last year (and a 4.78 FIP).

https://www.mlb.com/news/justin-verlande...Y2RiK8Bxpi

Thoughts?

[Mick]

We just got 42 year old Justin Verlander. Two years removed from the Cy Young, but a 5.48 ERA last year (and a 4.78 FIP).

https://www.mlb.com/news/justin-verlande...Y2RiK8Bxpi

Thoughts?

[Giants]

We just got 42 year old Justin Verlander. Two years removed from the Cy Young, but a 5.48 ERA last year (and a 4.78 FIP).

https://www.mlb.com/news/justin-verlande...Y2RiK8Bxpi

Thoughts?

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)

[Giants]

We just got 42 year old Justin Verlander. Two years removed from the Cy Young, but a 5.48 ERA last year (and a 4.78 FIP).

https://www.mlb.com/news/justin-verlande...Y2RiK8Bxpi

Thoughts?

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)

[Mick]

We just got 42 year old Justin Verlander. Two years removed from the Cy Young, but a 5.48 ERA last year (and a 4.78 FIP).

https://www.mlb.com/news/justin-verlande...Y2RiK8Bxpi

Thoughts?

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)

Orel Hershiser almost makes that list...he was 39 when he went 13-12 for the Giants as a starter. I always thought of Hershiser as a great pitcher, and he did lead the league in wins, once. But he led the league in losses twice, albeit going 15-15 with a 2.31 ERA.

[Mick]

We just got 42 year old Justin Verlander. Two years removed from the Cy Young, but a 5.48 ERA last year (and a 4.78 FIP).

https://www.mlb.com/news/justin-verlande...Y2RiK8Bxpi

Thoughts?

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)

Orel Hershiser almost makes that list...he was 39 when he went 13-12 for the Giants as a starter. I always thought of Hershiser as a great pitcher, and he did lead the league in wins, once. But he led the league in losses twice, albeit going 15-15 with a 2.31 ERA.

[lex24]

We just got 42 year old Justin Verlander. Two years removed from the Cy Young, but a 5.48 ERA last year (and a 4.78 FIP).

https://www.mlb.com/news/justin-verlande...Y2RiK8Bxpi

Thoughts?

Low level low risk move.  He pitched well in ‘23 and first part of ‘24.  Then he came back after a neck injury and was awful.

He can give them some innings.  Doesn’t stop them from other moves.

[lex24]

We just got 42 year old Justin Verlander. Two years removed from the Cy Young, but a 5.48 ERA last year (and a 4.78 FIP).

https://www.mlb.com/news/justin-verlande...Y2RiK8Bxpi

Thoughts?

Low level low risk move.  He pitched well in ‘23 and first part of ‘24.  Then he came back after a neck injury and was awful.

He can give them some innings.  Doesn’t stop them from other moves.

[BobK]

I like this. Glad the Giants are taking a flyer

[BobK]

I like this. Glad the Giants are taking a flyer

[Mick]

I feel pretty good about it. Minor concern: he got lit up by National League hitters, and didn't pitch against the Padres or Dodgers last year. Had 7.00 ERA or higher against the Brewers, Diamondbacks, Reds, Phillies and Cardinals. 0.00 ERA vs. Cubs, but gave up 7 baserunners in 4 1/3.

I still like it. He'll do well when he's healthy and pitching at Oracle, particularly as a fly ball pitcher. I'm guessing Yaz and Lee will be his permanent RF and CF.

[Mick]

I feel pretty good about it. Minor concern: he got lit up by National League hitters, and didn't pitch against the Padres or Dodgers last year. Had 7.00 ERA or higher against the Brewers, Diamondbacks, Reds, Phillies and Cardinals. 0.00 ERA vs. Cubs, but gave up 7 baserunners in 4 1/3.

I still like it. He'll do well when he's healthy and pitching at Oracle, particularly as a fly ball pitcher. I'm guessing Yaz and Lee will be his permanent RF and CF.

[Leftcoast]

Yawn ... doesn't move the needle with me.  At 42 years old expectations are low and he won't be here for long.  Hope I'm wrong and he has one more well above average year in him.

[Leftcoast]

Yawn ... doesn't move the needle with me.  At 42 years old expectations are low and he won't be here for long.  Hope I'm wrong and he has one more well above average year in him.

[Mick]

We just got 42 year old Justin Verlander. Two years removed from the Cy Young, but a 5.48 ERA last year (and a 4.78 FIP).

https://www.mlb.com/news/justin-verlande...Y2RiK8Bxpi

Thoughts?

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.

[Mick]

We just got 42 year old Justin Verlander. Two years removed from the Cy Young, but a 5.48 ERA last year (and a 4.78 FIP).

https://www.mlb.com/news/justin-verlande...Y2RiK8Bxpi

Thoughts?

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.

[CompSci87]

Bumping this new 2025 thread, created by request. The 2024 thread is closed.

[CompSci87]

Bumping this new 2025 thread, created by request. The 2024 thread is closed.

[old spanish trail]

We just got 42 year old Justin Verlander. Two years removed from the Cy Young, but a 5.48 ERA last year (and a 4.78 FIP).

https://www.mlb.com/news/justin-verlande...Y2RiK8Bxpi

Thoughts?

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.

[old spanish trail]

We just got 42 year old Justin Verlander. Two years removed from the Cy Young, but a 5.48 ERA last year (and a 4.78 FIP).

https://www.mlb.com/news/justin-verlande...Y2RiK8Bxpi

Thoughts?

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.

[Mick]

We just got 42 year old Justin Verlander. Two years removed from the Cy Young, but a 5.48 ERA last year (and a 4.78 FIP).

https://www.mlb.com/news/justin-verlande...Y2RiK8Bxpi

Thoughts?

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.

Be interesting to see where Verlander fits in the rotation. My guess is #3 or #4, depending on the spring. 

I really like the Sam Huff signing. 10 HRs in 198 ABs. 113 career OPS+. His MLB defensive stats are below average (to be kind), but his minor league defensive stats were strong.

I'm enthused about Casey Schmitt, who had a really strong September (.429/.500/.667/1.1667) to finish strong overall at .252/.283/.477/.760. His strikeout numbers were WAY down at the end of the year. Six HRs in just over 100 ABs. As a fielder, he has a cannon for an arm, decent fielder, poor range but can play all three IF spots. Perfect utility infielder. Hopefully, he's figured it out. Here's a good review of Schmitt:
https://www.mccoveychronicles.com/2025/1...ey-schmitt

They still need a middle-of-the-order bat. Alonso's options are drying up...the Yankees and Astros have found cheaper first basemen. 

I'm not too surprised no one has picked up 44 HR Santander. He's got some weaknesses in his numbers (.235 BA/.308 OBP) and he'll be expensive. The Yankees and Dodgers have added outfielders already. I think the Blue Jays and Red Sox have the inside track for him.

Giants reached arbitration agreements with Wade, Doval and Rogers as expected.

[Mick]

We just got 42 year old Justin Verlander. Two years removed from the Cy Young, but a 5.48 ERA last year (and a 4.78 FIP).

https://www.mlb.com/news/justin-verlande...Y2RiK8Bxpi

Thoughts?

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.

Be interesting to see where Verlander fits in the rotation. My guess is #3 or #4, depending on the spring. 

I really like the Sam Huff signing. 10 HRs in 198 ABs. 113 career OPS+. His MLB defensive stats are below average (to be kind), but his minor league defensive stats were strong.

I'm enthused about Casey Schmitt, who had a really strong September (.429/.500/.667/1.1667) to finish strong overall at .252/.283/.477/.760. His strikeout numbers were WAY down at the end of the year. Six HRs in just over 100 ABs. As a fielder, he has a cannon for an arm, decent fielder, poor range but can play all three IF spots. Perfect utility infielder. Hopefully, he's figured it out. Here's a good review of Schmitt:
https://www.mccoveychronicles.com/2025/1...ey-schmitt

They still need a middle-of-the-order bat. Alonso's options are drying up...the Yankees and Astros have found cheaper first basemen. 

I'm not too surprised no one has picked up 44 HR Santander. He's got some weaknesses in his numbers (.235 BA/.308 OBP) and he'll be expensive. The Yankees and Dodgers have added outfielders already. I think the Blue Jays and Red Sox have the inside track for him.

Giants reached arbitration agreements with Wade, Doval and Rogers as expected.

[amytmueller]

We just got 42 year old Justin Verlander. Two years removed from the Cy Young, but a 5.48 ERA last year (and a 4.78 FIP).

https://www.mlb.com/news/justin-verlande...Y2RiK8Bxpi

Thoughts?

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.

[amytmueller]

We just got 42 year old Justin Verlander. Two years removed from the Cy Young, but a 5.48 ERA last year (and a 4.78 FIP).

https://www.mlb.com/news/justin-verlande...Y2RiK8Bxpi

Thoughts?

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.

[cardcrimson]

We just got 42 year old Justin Verlander. Two years removed from the Cy Young, but a 5.48 ERA last year (and a 4.78 FIP).

https://www.mlb.com/news/justin-verlande...Y2RiK8Bxpi

Thoughts?

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. . . .

[cardcrimson]

We just got 42 year old Justin Verlander. Two years removed from the Cy Young, but a 5.48 ERA last year (and a 4.78 FIP).

https://www.mlb.com/news/justin-verlande...Y2RiK8Bxpi

Thoughts?

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. . . .