[French Rage]

44-25.  In 2016 as this point they were 43-26.  Hopefully no more parallels!

[French Rage]

44-25.  In 2016 as this point they were 43-26.  Hopefully no more parallels!

[teejers1]

44-25.  In 2016 as this point they were 43-26.  Hopefully no more parallels!

Still miffed that Bochy took out Moore in T9 against the Cubs in their final (playoff) game that season . . .

[teejers1]

44-25.  In 2016 as this point they were 43-26.  Hopefully no more parallels!

Still miffed that Bochy took out Moore in T9 against the Cubs in their final (playoff) game that season . . .

[Mick]

44-25.  In 2016 as this point they were 43-26.  Hopefully no more parallels!

2010, Giants were 39-30.
2012, 38-31
2014, also 44-25

Could be fun.  As long as they fix their bullpen. Through 65 games, the Giants’ bullpen ranked sixth in the majors with a 3.38 ERA, their 24 saves led all teams and their 2.84 strikeout-to-walk ratio was the seventh-best mark of any MLB bullpen, but their 14 blown saves trailed only the Marlins (16) and Dodgers (15) at that time.

[Mick]

44-25.  In 2016 as this point they were 43-26.  Hopefully no more parallels!

2010, Giants were 39-30.
2012, 38-31
2014, also 44-25

Could be fun.  As long as they fix their bullpen. Through 65 games, the Giants’ bullpen ranked sixth in the majors with a 3.38 ERA, their 24 saves led all teams and their 2.84 strikeout-to-walk ratio was the seventh-best mark of any MLB bullpen, but their 14 blown saves trailed only the Marlins (16) and Dodgers (15) at that time.

[Giants]

44-25.  In 2016 as this point they were 43-26.  Hopefully no more parallels!

2010, Giants were 39-30.
2012, 38-31
2014, also 44-25

Could be fun.  As long as they fix their bullpen.  Through 65 games, the Giants’ bullpen ranked sixth in the majors with a 3.38 ERA, their 24 saves led all teams and their 2.84 strikeout-to-walk ratio was the seventh-best mark of any MLB bullpen, but their 14 blown saves trailed only the Marlins (16) and Dodgers (15) at that time.

The issue is that there was no team in the NL close to the quality of the 2021 Dodgers in ‘10, ‘12 or ‘14.  The Giants are playing good ball but I just can’t see them finishing ahead of LA.  I have no problem with that.  Heck, right now, SF is a year or two ahead schedule.  They are playing with house money this season.

[Giants]

44-25.  In 2016 as this point they were 43-26.  Hopefully no more parallels!

2010, Giants were 39-30.
2012, 38-31
2014, also 44-25

Could be fun.  As long as they fix their bullpen.  Through 65 games, the Giants’ bullpen ranked sixth in the majors with a 3.38 ERA, their 24 saves led all teams and their 2.84 strikeout-to-walk ratio was the seventh-best mark of any MLB bullpen, but their 14 blown saves trailed only the Marlins (16) and Dodgers (15) at that time.

The issue is that there was no team in the NL close to the quality of the 2021 Dodgers in ‘10, ‘12 or ‘14.  The Giants are playing good ball but I just can’t see them finishing ahead of LA.  I have no problem with that.  Heck, right now, SF is a year or two ahead schedule.  They are playing with house money this season.

[Mick]

44-25.  In 2016 as this point they were 43-26.  Hopefully no more parallels!

2010, Giants were 39-30.
2012, 38-31
2014, also 44-25

Could be fun.  As long as they fix their bullpen.  Through 65 games, the Giants’ bullpen ranked sixth in the majors with a 3.38 ERA, their 24 saves led all teams and their 2.84 strikeout-to-walk ratio was the seventh-best mark of any MLB bullpen, but their 14 blown saves trailed only the Marlins (16) and Dodgers (15) at that time.

The issue is that there was no team in the NL close to the quality of the 2021 Dodgers in ‘10, ‘12 or ‘14.  The Giants are playing good ball but I just can’t see them finishing ahead of LA.  I have no problem with that.  Heck, right now, SF is a year or two ahead schedule.  They are playing with house money this season.

I feel the same way.  I think that Giant management, from top to bottom, is extraordinarily strong and up to date.  Right now, the Giants are 2.5 games ahead of the Dodgers.  The Giants have also played more road games, 38 vs. 33, though the Dodgers have a better run differential (+93 vs. +86).  Giants are 3-4 against the Dodgers this year, losing the first four and winning the next three. Last interesting point: Giants are 19-11 against teams over .500 while the Dodgers are 16-19 against teams over .500.

[Mick]

44-25.  In 2016 as this point they were 43-26.  Hopefully no more parallels!

2010, Giants were 39-30.
2012, 38-31
2014, also 44-25

Could be fun.  As long as they fix their bullpen.  Through 65 games, the Giants’ bullpen ranked sixth in the majors with a 3.38 ERA, their 24 saves led all teams and their 2.84 strikeout-to-walk ratio was the seventh-best mark of any MLB bullpen, but their 14 blown saves trailed only the Marlins (16) and Dodgers (15) at that time.

The issue is that there was no team in the NL close to the quality of the 2021 Dodgers in ‘10, ‘12 or ‘14.  The Giants are playing good ball but I just can’t see them finishing ahead of LA.  I have no problem with that.  Heck, right now, SF is a year or two ahead schedule.  They are playing with house money this season.

I feel the same way.  I think that Giant management, from top to bottom, is extraordinarily strong and up to date.  Right now, the Giants are 2.5 games ahead of the Dodgers.  The Giants have also played more road games, 38 vs. 33, though the Dodgers have a better run differential (+93 vs. +86).  Giants are 3-4 against the Dodgers this year, losing the first four and winning the next three. Last interesting point: Giants are 19-11 against teams over .500 while the Dodgers are 16-19 against teams over .500.

[lex24]

Jacob DeGrom

67 IP. 26 hits. 4 Earned runs. 8 walks. 111 k’s. 0.54 ERA. O.57 Whip.

Offensively he’s hitting .423 with 6 RBI’s. Yes, he’s driven in two more runs than earned runs he’s given up.

Last outing he left with some shoulder tightness. 3 innings pitched. Retired all 9. With 8 strikeouts.

He is phenomenal.  If he stays healthy, he has a good chance to have the greatest year any pitcher has had.

---

44-25.  In 2016 as this point they were 43-26.  Hopefully no more parallels!

2010, Giants were 39-30.
2012, 38-31
2014, also 44-25

Could be fun.  As long as they fix their bullpen.  Through 65 games, the Giants’ bullpen ranked sixth in the majors with a 3.38 ERA, their 24 saves led all teams and their 2.84 strikeout-to-walk ratio was the seventh-best mark of any MLB bullpen, but their 14 blown saves trailed only the Marlins (16) and Dodgers (15) at that time.

The issue is that there was no team in the NL close to the quality of the 2021 Dodgers in ‘10, ‘12 or ‘14.  The Giants are playing good ball but I just can’t see them finishing ahead of LA.  I have no problem with that.  Heck, right now, SF is a year or two ahead schedule.  They are playing with house money this season.

Zaidi has done a terrific job. His biggest challenges, however, await. First, the deadline. If the Giants are still contending, they become buyers. Needs are a right handed outfield bat and a power bullpen arm. What prospects is he willing to deal? Who is “untouchable”. (One of the things that made the Dodgers so strong is they pulled off trades for stars while not parting with their most coveted prospects, a testament to their minor league depth) 

Then he has the 2021 offseason. Which will be fascinating. Crawford, Belt, Cueto all “coming off the books”. Posey a team option. Conventional wisdom pre season was Cueto Crawford and Belt would not be resigned. And they would not exercise the option on Posey. Now, except for Cueto, it’s not as clear. 

Also Gausman, Wood, DeSclafani are all on one year deals. Assuming none sign multi year extensions during the season (and with a new CBA to be negotiated that is even more unlikely than usual) resigning them may be a challenge. 

And there is an attractive free agent market.

Giants will have loads of money to spend. How they do it will be, I think, Farhan biggest challenge.

He has proven he can build farm system depth, find diamonds in the rough and put a competitive team on the field while taking essentially a bottom up approach. Impressive to say the least.

Now he will have the opportunity to show if he can leverage that into an organization that can challenge the Dodgers and Padres, two teams that have parlayed minor league talent and the willingness to spend like drunken sailors into powerhouse rosters. 

I suspect he’s up to the task, assuming the checkbook is open (and it better be). It’s going to be fascinating to watch.

[lex24]

Jacob DeGrom

67 IP. 26 hits. 4 Earned runs. 8 walks. 111 k’s. 0.54 ERA. O.57 Whip.

Offensively he’s hitting .423 with 6 RBI’s. Yes, he’s driven in two more runs than earned runs he’s given up.

Last outing he left with some shoulder tightness. 3 innings pitched. Retired all 9. With 8 strikeouts.

He is phenomenal.  If he stays healthy, he has a good chance to have the greatest year any pitcher has had.

---

44-25.  In 2016 as this point they were 43-26.  Hopefully no more parallels!

2010, Giants were 39-30.
2012, 38-31
2014, also 44-25

Could be fun.  As long as they fix their bullpen.  Through 65 games, the Giants’ bullpen ranked sixth in the majors with a 3.38 ERA, their 24 saves led all teams and their 2.84 strikeout-to-walk ratio was the seventh-best mark of any MLB bullpen, but their 14 blown saves trailed only the Marlins (16) and Dodgers (15) at that time.

The issue is that there was no team in the NL close to the quality of the 2021 Dodgers in ‘10, ‘12 or ‘14.  The Giants are playing good ball but I just can’t see them finishing ahead of LA.  I have no problem with that.  Heck, right now, SF is a year or two ahead schedule.  They are playing with house money this season.

Zaidi has done a terrific job. His biggest challenges, however, await. First, the deadline. If the Giants are still contending, they become buyers. Needs are a right handed outfield bat and a power bullpen arm. What prospects is he willing to deal? Who is “untouchable”. (One of the things that made the Dodgers so strong is they pulled off trades for stars while not parting with their most coveted prospects, a testament to their minor league depth) 

Then he has the 2021 offseason. Which will be fascinating. Crawford, Belt, Cueto all “coming off the books”. Posey a team option. Conventional wisdom pre season was Cueto Crawford and Belt would not be resigned. And they would not exercise the option on Posey. Now, except for Cueto, it’s not as clear. 

Also Gausman, Wood, DeSclafani are all on one year deals. Assuming none sign multi year extensions during the season (and with a new CBA to be negotiated that is even more unlikely than usual) resigning them may be a challenge. 

And there is an attractive free agent market.

Giants will have loads of money to spend. How they do it will be, I think, Farhan biggest challenge.

He has proven he can build farm system depth, find diamonds in the rough and put a competitive team on the field while taking essentially a bottom up approach. Impressive to say the least.

Now he will have the opportunity to show if he can leverage that into an organization that can challenge the Dodgers and Padres, two teams that have parlayed minor league talent and the willingness to spend like drunken sailors into powerhouse rosters. 

I suspect he’s up to the task, assuming the checkbook is open (and it better be). It’s going to be fascinating to watch.

[Phogge]

I would think that the Yankees will spend on starting pitching. Hard to compete with them if they want somebody. The Giants have a few untouchables... Corry, Ramos, Luciano, maybe Bart. Have to sign Crawford and Posey who are fan darlings. However they could leave for longer term deals. I don't like Belt but he could hit .300 just by bunting once a game. Dickerson is a part time player who is crystal. Who are possible half season rental outfielders?

I would pick a third baseman in the draft if a really good one is available.

[Phogge]

I would think that the Yankees will spend on starting pitching. Hard to compete with them if they want somebody. The Giants have a few untouchables... Corry, Ramos, Luciano, maybe Bart. Have to sign Crawford and Posey who are fan darlings. However they could leave for longer term deals. I don't like Belt but he could hit .300 just by bunting once a game. Dickerson is a part time player who is crystal. Who are possible half season rental outfielders?

I would pick a third baseman in the draft if a really good one is available.

[Goose]

Have to sign Crawford and Posey who are fan darlings. However they could leave for longer term deals. I don't like Belt but he could hit .300 just by bunting once a game.

I think that if Crawford doesn't completely fall apart in the second half it makes good baseball sense to sign him to like a two year deal. The Giants have some young middle infielders that they think are the future. Crawford can play a bit and help transition to these guys. I don't think anybody is going to offer Crawford a long-term contract. The teams that really want a shortstop have better, younger options to spend money on.
Posey is having a good year. He apparently isn't willing to play first base as a regular thing. If that remains true, he won't last two more years. If that is all he wants, OK, take the team option and see about another year later. No long term contract because hw won't be able to contribute down the road.
Let Belt go. Maybe they can appeal to Posey by saying we have no first baseman, we need you to play there. Belt is what he is, and it isn't good enough.

[Goose]

Have to sign Crawford and Posey who are fan darlings. However they could leave for longer term deals. I don't like Belt but he could hit .300 just by bunting once a game.

I think that if Crawford doesn't completely fall apart in the second half it makes good baseball sense to sign him to like a two year deal. The Giants have some young middle infielders that they think are the future. Crawford can play a bit and help transition to these guys. I don't think anybody is going to offer Crawford a long-term contract. The teams that really want a shortstop have better, younger options to spend money on.
Posey is having a good year. He apparently isn't willing to play first base as a regular thing. If that remains true, he won't last two more years. If that is all he wants, OK, take the team option and see about another year later. No long term contract because hw won't be able to contribute down the road.
Let Belt go. Maybe they can appeal to Posey by saying we have no first baseman, we need you to play there. Belt is what he is, and it isn't good enough.

[lex24]

Have to sign Crawford and Posey who are fan darlings. However they could leave for longer term deals. I don't like Belt but he could hit .300 just by bunting once a game.

I think that if Crawford doesn't completely fall apart in the second half it makes good baseball sense to sign him to like a two year deal. The Giants have some young middle infielders that they think are the future. Crawford can play a bit and help transition to these guys. I don't think anybody is going to offer Crawford a long-term contract. The teams that really want a shortstop have better, younger options to spend money on.
Posey is having a good year. He apparently isn't willing to play first base as a regular thing. If that remains true, he won't last two more years. If that is all he wants, OK, take the team option and see about another year later. No long term contract because hw won't be able to contribute down the road.
Let Belt go. Maybe they can appeal to Posey by saying we have no first baseman, we need you to play there. Belt is what he is, and it isn't good enough.

I don’t think Posey has “refused” to play first regularly.  He simply has been significantly more valuable as a catcher Which remains the case. Actually I’ve always thought that if he was going to move out from behind the plate, third base would be his best option.

My guess is the will look to sign him to a 2 year deal, with perhaps a team option.  They aren’t going to exercise the option at 22 million.

[lex24]

Have to sign Crawford and Posey who are fan darlings. However they could leave for longer term deals. I don't like Belt but he could hit .300 just by bunting once a game.

I think that if Crawford doesn't completely fall apart in the second half it makes good baseball sense to sign him to like a two year deal. The Giants have some young middle infielders that they think are the future. Crawford can play a bit and help transition to these guys. I don't think anybody is going to offer Crawford a long-term contract. The teams that really want a shortstop have better, younger options to spend money on.
Posey is having a good year. He apparently isn't willing to play first base as a regular thing. If that remains true, he won't last two more years. If that is all he wants, OK, take the team option and see about another year later. No long term contract because hw won't be able to contribute down the road.
Let Belt go. Maybe they can appeal to Posey by saying we have no first baseman, we need you to play there. Belt is what he is, and it isn't good enough.

I don’t think Posey has “refused” to play first regularly.  He simply has been significantly more valuable as a catcher Which remains the case. Actually I’ve always thought that if he was going to move out from behind the plate, third base would be his best option.

My guess is the will look to sign him to a 2 year deal, with perhaps a team option.  They aren’t going to exercise the option at 22 million.

[teejers1]

I think that if Crawford doesn't completely fall apart in the second half it makes good baseball sense to sign him to like a two year deal. The Giants have some young middle infielders that they think are the future. Crawford can play a bit and help transition to these guys. I don't think anybody is going to offer Crawford a long-term contract. The teams that really want a shortstop have better, younger options to spend money on.

Let Belt go. Maybe they can appeal to Posey by saying we have no first baseman, we need you to play there. Belt is what he is, and it isn't good enough.

1.  I think Craw will get a 3-year contract offer from several teams.  The question is: can/will the Giants match (or come sufficiently close).

2.  Belt is one of the few players on the Giants roster who can carry a team when he is hot.  He also gets on base a ton.  I know the rap on him is he takes too many called third strikes on 3-2 pitches; but the last two I saw, Belt was right and he should have been awarded 1B.  I'd keep him.

[teejers1]

I think that if Crawford doesn't completely fall apart in the second half it makes good baseball sense to sign him to like a two year deal. The Giants have some young middle infielders that they think are the future. Crawford can play a bit and help transition to these guys. I don't think anybody is going to offer Crawford a long-term contract. The teams that really want a shortstop have better, younger options to spend money on.

Let Belt go. Maybe they can appeal to Posey by saying we have no first baseman, we need you to play there. Belt is what he is, and it isn't good enough.

1.  I think Craw will get a 3-year contract offer from several teams.  The question is: can/will the Giants match (or come sufficiently close).

2.  Belt is one of the few players on the Giants roster who can carry a team when he is hot.  He also gets on base a ton.  I know the rap on him is he takes too many called third strikes on 3-2 pitches; but the last two I saw, Belt was right and he should have been awarded 1B.  I'd keep him.

[DC 86]

1.  I think Craw will get a 3-year contract offer from several teams.

Trevor Story, Corey Seager, Carlos Correa and Javier Baez are all scheduled to become free agents after this season. Marcus Semien also, who is playing second base this season but is a shortstop. The Mets already signed Francisco Lindor long term. Crawford will be 35 at the start of next season; hard to imagine a robust market for him, which will work in the Giants favor if they want to re-sign him on a reasonable contract. Then again perhaps they will instead be in the market for one of the aforementioned options.

[DC 86]

1.  I think Craw will get a 3-year contract offer from several teams.

Trevor Story, Corey Seager, Carlos Correa and Javier Baez are all scheduled to become free agents after this season. Marcus Semien also, who is playing second base this season but is a shortstop. The Mets already signed Francisco Lindor long term. Crawford will be 35 at the start of next season; hard to imagine a robust market for him, which will work in the Giants favor if they want to re-sign him on a reasonable contract. Then again perhaps they will instead be in the market for one of the aforementioned options.

[teejers1]

1.  I think Craw will get a 3-year contract offer from several teams.

Trevor Story, Corey Seager, Carlos Correa and Javier Baez are all scheduled to become free agents after this season. Marcus Semien also, who is playing second base this season but is a shortstop. The Mets already signed Francisco Lindor long term. Crawford will be 35 at the start of next season; hard to imagine a robust market for him, which will work in the Giants favor if they want to re-sign him on a reasonable contract. Then again perhaps they will instead be in the market for one of the aforementioned options.

The guys you list (with possible exception of Story) will get 5+ year deals for gobs of money.  I think Crawford at 3 years, at a lot less per, will be attractive to teams.  We'll see (and this assumes, of course, that his numbers don't crater between now and the end of the season).

[teejers1]

1.  I think Craw will get a 3-year contract offer from several teams.

Trevor Story, Corey Seager, Carlos Correa and Javier Baez are all scheduled to become free agents after this season. Marcus Semien also, who is playing second base this season but is a shortstop. The Mets already signed Francisco Lindor long term. Crawford will be 35 at the start of next season; hard to imagine a robust market for him, which will work in the Giants favor if they want to re-sign him on a reasonable contract. Then again perhaps they will instead be in the market for one of the aforementioned options.

The guys you list (with possible exception of Story) will get 5+ year deals for gobs of money.  I think Crawford at 3 years, at a lot less per, will be attractive to teams.  We'll see (and this assumes, of course, that his numbers don't crater between now and the end of the season).

[Goose]

1.  I think Craw will get a 3-year contract offer from several teams.

Trevor Story, Corey Seager, Carlos Correa and Javier Baez are all scheduled to become free agents after this season. Marcus Semien also, who is playing second base this season but is a shortstop. The Mets already signed Francisco Lindor long term. Crawford will be 35 at the start of next season; hard to imagine a robust market for him, which will work in the Giants favor if they want to re-sign him on a reasonable contract. Then again perhaps they will instead be in the market for one of the aforementioned options.

The guys you list (with possible exception of Story) will get 5+ year deals for gobs of money.  I think Crawford at 3 years, at a lot less per, will be attractive to teams.  We'll see (and this assumes, of course, that his numbers don't crater between now and the end of the season).

Crawford isn't getting 3 years from the Giants. The giants are good to go with home grown talent at SS and 2B in the near future. They aren't in the market to pay anyone big bucks there because they don't need to. I seriously doubt any team is going to sign up for a year of a 38 year old shortstop. The optics alone would be too bad to contemplate. Could some team be that silly? Possibly, never underestimate stupidity. However, I really don't expect it.

---

I don’t think Posey has “refused” to play first regularly.

Actually, I think he has. Not publicly, but for quite some time the Giants have wanted to find a way to extend his career. However, he likes being a cather, he is good at it, and that is the end of it as far as he is concerned.

He simply has been significantly more valuable as a catcher Which remains the case. Actually I’ve always thought that if he was going to move out from behind the plate, third base would be his best option.

I have no argument about third vs first, other than playing third is generally considered a more difficult task than playing first. While Posey has certainly contributed greatly as a catcher, keeping him around for 5 more year as a hitter has it's merits as well. I think that is what the Giants wanted to do, but by now it is probably too late.

My guess is the will look to sign him to a 2 year deal, with perhaps a team option.  They aren’t going to exercise the option at 22 million.

You are correct. However, what do they do if Posey says he will just retire if they don't pick up the option? I think that is a very probable outcome. He doesn't need to play two more years for the money, especially if it is a total less than 22 million, but 22 million for one year might do it. Publicity wise, he has all the cards.

[Goose]

1.  I think Craw will get a 3-year contract offer from several teams.

Trevor Story, Corey Seager, Carlos Correa and Javier Baez are all scheduled to become free agents after this season. Marcus Semien also, who is playing second base this season but is a shortstop. The Mets already signed Francisco Lindor long term. Crawford will be 35 at the start of next season; hard to imagine a robust market for him, which will work in the Giants favor if they want to re-sign him on a reasonable contract. Then again perhaps they will instead be in the market for one of the aforementioned options.

The guys you list (with possible exception of Story) will get 5+ year deals for gobs of money.  I think Crawford at 3 years, at a lot less per, will be attractive to teams.  We'll see (and this assumes, of course, that his numbers don't crater between now and the end of the season).

Crawford isn't getting 3 years from the Giants. The giants are good to go with home grown talent at SS and 2B in the near future. They aren't in the market to pay anyone big bucks there because they don't need to. I seriously doubt any team is going to sign up for a year of a 38 year old shortstop. The optics alone would be too bad to contemplate. Could some team be that silly? Possibly, never underestimate stupidity. However, I really don't expect it.

---

I don’t think Posey has “refused” to play first regularly.

Actually, I think he has. Not publicly, but for quite some time the Giants have wanted to find a way to extend his career. However, he likes being a cather, he is good at it, and that is the end of it as far as he is concerned.

He simply has been significantly more valuable as a catcher Which remains the case. Actually I’ve always thought that if he was going to move out from behind the plate, third base would be his best option.

I have no argument about third vs first, other than playing third is generally considered a more difficult task than playing first. While Posey has certainly contributed greatly as a catcher, keeping him around for 5 more year as a hitter has it's merits as well. I think that is what the Giants wanted to do, but by now it is probably too late.

My guess is the will look to sign him to a 2 year deal, with perhaps a team option.  They aren’t going to exercise the option at 22 million.

You are correct. However, what do they do if Posey says he will just retire if they don't pick up the option? I think that is a very probable outcome. He doesn't need to play two more years for the money, especially if it is a total less than 22 million, but 22 million for one year might do it. Publicity wise, he has all the cards.

[teejers1]

1.  I think Craw will get a 3-year contract offer from several teams.

Trevor Story, Corey Seager, Carlos Correa and Javier Baez are all scheduled to become free agents after this season. Marcus Semien also, who is playing second base this season but is a shortstop. The Mets already signed Francisco Lindor long term. Crawford will be 35 at the start of next season; hard to imagine a robust market for him, which will work in the Giants favor if they want to re-sign him on a reasonable contract. Then again perhaps they will instead be in the market for one of the aforementioned options.

The guys you list (with possible exception of Story) will get 5+ year deals for gobs of money.  I think Crawford at 3 years, at a lot less per, will be attractive to teams.  We'll see (and this assumes, of course, that his numbers don't crater between now and the end of the season).

Crawford isn't getting 3 years from the Giants. The giants are good to go with home grown talent at SS and 2B in the near future. They aren't in the market to pay anyone big bucks there because they don't need to. I seriously doubt any team is going to sign up for a year of a 38 year old shortstop. The optics alone would be too bad to contemplate. Could some team be that silly? Possibly, never underestimate stupidity. However, I really don't expect it.

---

I don’t think Posey has “refused” to play first regularly.

Actually, I think he has. Not publicly, but for quite some time the Giants have wanted to find a way to extend his career. However, he likes being a cather, he is good at it, and that is the end of it as far as he is concerned.

He simply has been significantly more valuable as a catcher Which remains the case. Actually I’ve always thought that if he was going to move out from behind the plate, third base would be his best option.

I have no argument about third vs first, other than playing third is generally considered a more difficult task than playing first. While Posey has certainly contributed greatly as a catcher, keeping him around for 5 more year as a hitter has it's merits as well. I think that is what the Giants wanted to do, but by now it is probably too late.

My guess is the will look to sign him to a 2 year deal, with perhaps a team option.  They aren’t going to exercise the option at 22 million.

You are correct. However, what do they do if Posey says he will just retire if they don't pick up the option? I think that is a very probable outcome. He doesn't need to play two more years for the money, especially if it is a total less than 22 million, but 22 million for one year might do it. Publicity wise, he has all the cards.

I agree it's unlikely Crawford will get 3 years from the Giants; thus, the question becomes what does the Giants' 2-year deal look like versus any 3-year deals offered to Crawford.  We'll see.

As for Posey, don't forget he already passed on $$ for last season.  Yeah, he is financially set for life, but how many athletes - particularly baseball players - can you name who voluntarily left multiple years of $$ on the table?  Maybe Mussina?

[teejers1]

1.  I think Craw will get a 3-year contract offer from several teams.

Trevor Story, Corey Seager, Carlos Correa and Javier Baez are all scheduled to become free agents after this season. Marcus Semien also, who is playing second base this season but is a shortstop. The Mets already signed Francisco Lindor long term. Crawford will be 35 at the start of next season; hard to imagine a robust market for him, which will work in the Giants favor if they want to re-sign him on a reasonable contract. Then again perhaps they will instead be in the market for one of the aforementioned options.

The guys you list (with possible exception of Story) will get 5+ year deals for gobs of money.  I think Crawford at 3 years, at a lot less per, will be attractive to teams.  We'll see (and this assumes, of course, that his numbers don't crater between now and the end of the season).

Crawford isn't getting 3 years from the Giants. The giants are good to go with home grown talent at SS and 2B in the near future. They aren't in the market to pay anyone big bucks there because they don't need to. I seriously doubt any team is going to sign up for a year of a 38 year old shortstop. The optics alone would be too bad to contemplate. Could some team be that silly? Possibly, never underestimate stupidity. However, I really don't expect it.

---

I don’t think Posey has “refused” to play first regularly.

Actually, I think he has. Not publicly, but for quite some time the Giants have wanted to find a way to extend his career. However, he likes being a cather, he is good at it, and that is the end of it as far as he is concerned.

He simply has been significantly more valuable as a catcher Which remains the case. Actually I’ve always thought that if he was going to move out from behind the plate, third base would be his best option.

I have no argument about third vs first, other than playing third is generally considered a more difficult task than playing first. While Posey has certainly contributed greatly as a catcher, keeping him around for 5 more year as a hitter has it's merits as well. I think that is what the Giants wanted to do, but by now it is probably too late.

My guess is the will look to sign him to a 2 year deal, with perhaps a team option.  They aren’t going to exercise the option at 22 million.

You are correct. However, what do they do if Posey says he will just retire if they don't pick up the option? I think that is a very probable outcome. He doesn't need to play two more years for the money, especially if it is a total less than 22 million, but 22 million for one year might do it. Publicity wise, he has all the cards.

I agree it's unlikely Crawford will get 3 years from the Giants; thus, the question becomes what does the Giants' 2-year deal look like versus any 3-year deals offered to Crawford.  We'll see.

As for Posey, don't forget he already passed on $$ for last season.  Yeah, he is financially set for life, but how many athletes - particularly baseball players - can you name who voluntarily left multiple years of $$ on the table?  Maybe Mussina?

[DC 86]

1.  I think Craw will get a 3-year contract offer from several teams.

Trevor Story, Corey Seager, Carlos Correa and Javier Baez are all scheduled to become free agents after this season. Marcus Semien also, who is playing second base this season but is a shortstop. The Mets already signed Francisco Lindor long term. Crawford will be 35 at the start of next season; hard to imagine a robust market for him, which will work in the Giants favor if they want to re-sign him on a reasonable contract. Then again perhaps they will instead be in the market for one of the aforementioned options.

The guys you list (with possible exception of Story) will get 5+ year deals for gobs of money.  I think Crawford at 3 years, at a lot less per, will be attractive to teams.  We'll see (and this assumes, of course, that his numbers don't crater between now and the end of the season).

Fair enough, we'll see. But consider that in the last 15 years there's only been one shortstop older than 33 who has signed a three-year (or longer) free agent contract: Derek Jeter, who was 37 but obviously a special situation.

[DC 86]

1.  I think Craw will get a 3-year contract offer from several teams.

Trevor Story, Corey Seager, Carlos Correa and Javier Baez are all scheduled to become free agents after this season. Marcus Semien also, who is playing second base this season but is a shortstop. The Mets already signed Francisco Lindor long term. Crawford will be 35 at the start of next season; hard to imagine a robust market for him, which will work in the Giants favor if they want to re-sign him on a reasonable contract. Then again perhaps they will instead be in the market for one of the aforementioned options.

The guys you list (with possible exception of Story) will get 5+ year deals for gobs of money.  I think Crawford at 3 years, at a lot less per, will be attractive to teams.  We'll see (and this assumes, of course, that his numbers don't crater between now and the end of the season).

Fair enough, we'll see. But consider that in the last 15 years there's only been one shortstop older than 33 who has signed a three-year (or longer) free agent contract: Derek Jeter, who was 37 but obviously a special situation.

[Giants]

1.  I think Craw will get a 3-year contract offer from several teams.

Trevor Story, Corey Seager, Carlos Correa and Javier Baez are all scheduled to become free agents after this season. Marcus Semien also, who is playing second base this season but is a shortstop. The Mets already signed Francisco Lindor long term. Crawford will be 35 at the start of next season; hard to imagine a robust market for him, which will work in the Giants favor if they want to re-sign him on a reasonable contract. Then again perhaps they will instead be in the market for one of the aforementioned options.

The guys you list (with possible exception of Story) will get 5+ year deals for gobs of money.  I think Crawford at 3 years, at a lot less per, will be attractive to teams.  We'll see (and this assumes, of course, that his numbers don't crater between now and the end of the season).

Crawford isn't getting 3 years from the Giants. The giants are good to go with home grown talent at SS and 2B in the near future. They aren't in the market to pay anyone big bucks there because they don't need to. I seriously doubt any team is going to sign up for a year of a 38 year old shortstop. The optics alone would be too bad to contemplate. Could some team be that silly? Possibly, never underestimate stupidity. However, I really don't expect it.

---

I don’t think Posey has “refused” to play first regularly.

Actually, I think he has. Not publicly, but for quite some time the Giants have wanted to find a way to extend his career. However, he likes being a cather, he is good at it, and that is the end of it as far as he is concerned.

He simply has been significantly more valuable as a catcher Which remains the case. Actually I’ve always thought that if he was going to move out from behind the plate, third base would be his best option.

I have no argument about third vs first, other than playing third is generally considered a more difficult task than playing first. While Posey has certainly contributed greatly as a catcher, keeping him around for 5 more year as a hitter has it's merits as well. I think that is what the Giants wanted to do, but by now it is probably too late.

My guess is the will look to sign him to a 2 year deal, with perhaps a team option.  They aren’t going to exercise the option at 22 million.

You are correct. However, what do they do if Posey says he will just retire if they don't pick up the option? I think that is a very probable outcome. He doesn't need to play two more years for the money, especially if it is a total less than 22 million, but 22 million for one year might do it. Publicity wise, he has all the cards.

I believe that Crawford and Posey will finish their careers with the Giants.  Both will be offered a contract (2 years with an option/buyout for a 3rd).  They have stated on several occasions that they want to stay with the Giants.

Belt might be offered an extension but he will certainly look around.  I suspect he will leave for a nice contract elsewhere.  

Gausman and Desclafani will be offered extensions later this summer. Will they take them? Time will tell.

In the meantime, Zaidi needs to upgrade the bullpen without giving up any high level prospects - a daunting task. If he threads the needle, the Giants will be set for the short term.

[Giants]

1.  I think Craw will get a 3-year contract offer from several teams.

Trevor Story, Corey Seager, Carlos Correa and Javier Baez are all scheduled to become free agents after this season. Marcus Semien also, who is playing second base this season but is a shortstop. The Mets already signed Francisco Lindor long term. Crawford will be 35 at the start of next season; hard to imagine a robust market for him, which will work in the Giants favor if they want to re-sign him on a reasonable contract. Then again perhaps they will instead be in the market for one of the aforementioned options.

The guys you list (with possible exception of Story) will get 5+ year deals for gobs of money.  I think Crawford at 3 years, at a lot less per, will be attractive to teams.  We'll see (and this assumes, of course, that his numbers don't crater between now and the end of the season).

Crawford isn't getting 3 years from the Giants. The giants are good to go with home grown talent at SS and 2B in the near future. They aren't in the market to pay anyone big bucks there because they don't need to. I seriously doubt any team is going to sign up for a year of a 38 year old shortstop. The optics alone would be too bad to contemplate. Could some team be that silly? Possibly, never underestimate stupidity. However, I really don't expect it.

---

I don’t think Posey has “refused” to play first regularly.

Actually, I think he has. Not publicly, but for quite some time the Giants have wanted to find a way to extend his career. However, he likes being a cather, he is good at it, and that is the end of it as far as he is concerned.

He simply has been significantly more valuable as a catcher Which remains the case. Actually I’ve always thought that if he was going to move out from behind the plate, third base would be his best option.

I have no argument about third vs first, other than playing third is generally considered a more difficult task than playing first. While Posey has certainly contributed greatly as a catcher, keeping him around for 5 more year as a hitter has it's merits as well. I think that is what the Giants wanted to do, but by now it is probably too late.

My guess is the will look to sign him to a 2 year deal, with perhaps a team option.  They aren’t going to exercise the option at 22 million.

You are correct. However, what do they do if Posey says he will just retire if they don't pick up the option? I think that is a very probable outcome. He doesn't need to play two more years for the money, especially if it is a total less than 22 million, but 22 million for one year might do it. Publicity wise, he has all the cards.

I believe that Crawford and Posey will finish their careers with the Giants.  Both will be offered a contract (2 years with an option/buyout for a 3rd).  They have stated on several occasions that they want to stay with the Giants.

Belt might be offered an extension but he will certainly look around.  I suspect he will leave for a nice contract elsewhere.  

Gausman and Desclafani will be offered extensions later this summer. Will they take them? Time will tell.

In the meantime, Zaidi needs to upgrade the bullpen without giving up any high level prospects - a daunting task. If he threads the needle, the Giants will be set for the short term.

[BostonCard]

Posey might want to stay to improve his chances of entering the Hall of Fame.

https://www.baseball-reference.com/leaders/jaws_C.shtml

https://www.mercurynews.com/2021/01/27/h...emembered/

Posey has one of the most impressive r um  of any catcher in the 21st century, starting for three title-winning clubs, securing a MVP Award, Rookie of the Year honors, six All-Star nods, four Silver Sluggers, a batting title and a Gold Glove. There are few honors Posey hasn't received as a  player, but there are many voters who may object to his enshrinement due to the lack of sustained offensive production through his career.

Entering the 2021 season, Posey has 140 career home runs and 673 career RBIs, which are far fewer than the 932 RBIs nine-time Gold Glove Award winner Yadier Molina racked up in 17 seasons with the Cardinals.

Depending on how much longer Posey plays, it's possible a lack of longevity and a downward offensive trajectory at the end of his career could hurt his chances. It's also possible a player Giants president of baseball operations Farhan Zaidi and manager Gabe Kapler have referred to as a "future  Hall of Famer" bounces back in a significant way, returning to form as an All-Star caliber catcher who can sway more voters with a late career renaissance.

The allure of Cooperstown might have him coming back.

BC

[BostonCard]

Posey might want to stay to improve his chances of entering the Hall of Fame.

https://www.baseball-reference.com/leaders/jaws_C.shtml

https://www.mercurynews.com/2021/01/27/h...emembered/

Posey has one of the most impressive r um  of any catcher in the 21st century, starting for three title-winning clubs, securing a MVP Award, Rookie of the Year honors, six All-Star nods, four Silver Sluggers, a batting title and a Gold Glove. There are few honors Posey hasn't received as a  player, but there are many voters who may object to his enshrinement due to the lack of sustained offensive production through his career.

Entering the 2021 season, Posey has 140 career home runs and 673 career RBIs, which are far fewer than the 932 RBIs nine-time Gold Glove Award winner Yadier Molina racked up in 17 seasons with the Cardinals.

Depending on how much longer Posey plays, it's possible a lack of longevity and a downward offensive trajectory at the end of his career could hurt his chances. It's also possible a player Giants president of baseball operations Farhan Zaidi and manager Gabe Kapler have referred to as a "future  Hall of Famer" bounces back in a significant way, returning to form as an All-Star caliber catcher who can sway more voters with a late career renaissance.

The allure of Cooperstown might have him coming back.

BC

[Phogge]

From a scout who I played with a half century ago the only “can’t miss” guy is Corry but he’s a pitcher and they all get hurt in today’s game. Luciano may be the next coming of Honus Wagner but if you have the cash to get Correa or Baez go for it. If so move Luciano to third.

On another topic... they have ruined Triples Alley.

[Phogge]

From a scout who I played with a half century ago the only “can’t miss” guy is Corry but he’s a pitcher and they all get hurt in today’s game. Luciano may be the next coming of Honus Wagner but if you have the cash to get Correa or Baez go for it. If so move Luciano to third.

On another topic... they have ruined Triples Alley.

[lex24]

Posey might want to stay to improve his chances of entering the Hall of Fame.

https://www.baseball-reference.com/leaders/jaws_C.shtml

https://www.mercurynews.com/2021/01/27/h...emembered/

Posey has one of the most impressive r um  of any catcher in the 21st century, starting for three title-winning clubs, securing a MVP Award, Rookie of the Year honors, six All-Star nods, four Silver Sluggers, a batting title and a Gold Glove. There are few honors Posey hasn't received as a  player, but there are many voters who may object to his enshrinement due to the lack of sustained offensive production through his career.

Entering the 2021 season, Posey has 140 career home runs and 673 career RBIs, which are far fewer than the 932 RBIs nine-time Gold Glove Award winner Yadier Molina racked up in 17 seasons with the Cardinals.

Depending on how much longer Posey plays, it's possible a lack of longevity and a downward offensive trajectory at the end of his career could hurt his chances. It's also possible a player Giants president of baseball operations Farhan Zaidi and manager Gabe Kapler have referred to as a "future  Hall of Famer" bounces back in a significant way, returning to form as an All-Star caliber catcher who can sway more voters with a late career renaissance.

The allure of Cooperstown might have him coming back.

BC

I don’t think there is any doubt that Posey wants to come back.  He’s already done enough to make the HOF.  Numbers , awards aside their are other factors such as being the face of a franchise (and best hitter as a catcher) for a three time champion and being the best at his position for a decade.  

Molina is the other HOF catcher from this era. But please give me a break on the RBI comparison. Molina is not the hitter Posey is. He’s played a lot longer. And he’s been on significantly better hitting teams.

Molina: .281/.332/.405/.737. 167 HRs
Posey: .303/.371/.461/.832. 152 HRs

As for RBI’s, a better comparison statistic is hitting with RISP. Fairly close:

Posey. .310/407/477/883
Molina. 302/365/413/778

And if you want to go by “WAR” (I don’t). Posey 43.6. Molina. 41.6

Both are off the charts when it comes to intangibles. But I suspect that won’t matter. It should, but it won’t. HOF voters only look at negatives when it comes to intangibles. Like steroids.

Hopefully the HOF vote doesn’t simply become a quasi computerized analytical exercise based on  “WAR”. If I was a voter one big factor would be how players stack up against their contemporaries. Someone that is the all decade performer at his position says something. That should matter. Much more so then someone that pikes up numbers but was never at the top at his position. Rafael Palmiero is a prime example of that. Very good player. But never the guy you’d pick at First Base. His numbers are better, for example, than Will Clark’s, as he played longer. But who would you want up with a runner on third, two outs, bottom nine in a key game. Clark or Palmiero. No contest.

[lex24]

Posey might want to stay to improve his chances of entering the Hall of Fame.

https://www.baseball-reference.com/leaders/jaws_C.shtml

https://www.mercurynews.com/2021/01/27/h...emembered/

Posey has one of the most impressive r um  of any catcher in the 21st century, starting for three title-winning clubs, securing a MVP Award, Rookie of the Year honors, six All-Star nods, four Silver Sluggers, a batting title and a Gold Glove. There are few honors Posey hasn't received as a  player, but there are many voters who may object to his enshrinement due to the lack of sustained offensive production through his career.

Entering the 2021 season, Posey has 140 career home runs and 673 career RBIs, which are far fewer than the 932 RBIs nine-time Gold Glove Award winner Yadier Molina racked up in 17 seasons with the Cardinals.

Depending on how much longer Posey plays, it's possible a lack of longevity and a downward offensive trajectory at the end of his career could hurt his chances. It's also possible a player Giants president of baseball operations Farhan Zaidi and manager Gabe Kapler have referred to as a "future  Hall of Famer" bounces back in a significant way, returning to form as an All-Star caliber catcher who can sway more voters with a late career renaissance.

The allure of Cooperstown might have him coming back.

BC

I don’t think there is any doubt that Posey wants to come back.  He’s already done enough to make the HOF.  Numbers , awards aside their are other factors such as being the face of a franchise (and best hitter as a catcher) for a three time champion and being the best at his position for a decade.  

Molina is the other HOF catcher from this era. But please give me a break on the RBI comparison. Molina is not the hitter Posey is. He’s played a lot longer. And he’s been on significantly better hitting teams.

Molina: .281/.332/.405/.737. 167 HRs
Posey: .303/.371/.461/.832. 152 HRs

As for RBI’s, a better comparison statistic is hitting with RISP. Fairly close:

Posey. .310/407/477/883
Molina. 302/365/413/778

And if you want to go by “WAR” (I don’t). Posey 43.6. Molina. 41.6

Both are off the charts when it comes to intangibles. But I suspect that won’t matter. It should, but it won’t. HOF voters only look at negatives when it comes to intangibles. Like steroids.

Hopefully the HOF vote doesn’t simply become a quasi computerized analytical exercise based on  “WAR”. If I was a voter one big factor would be how players stack up against their contemporaries. Someone that is the all decade performer at his position says something. That should matter. Much more so then someone that pikes up numbers but was never at the top at his position. Rafael Palmiero is a prime example of that. Very good player. But never the guy you’d pick at First Base. His numbers are better, for example, than Will Clark’s, as he played longer. But who would you want up with a runner on third, two outs, bottom nine in a key game. Clark or Palmiero. No contest.

[BobK]

Yet so many triples Phogge. Loved our slow back catcher with his triple

[BobK]

Yet so many triples Phogge. Loved our slow back catcher with his triple