San Francisco Giants Offseason Pickups Show Promise For The 2026 Season

Written by David Sisson

This offseason for the San Francisco Giants has been one of adding depth to the weaknesses showed by the teams performance last season, especially in the outfield and batting order. 

(Luis Arraez hits a single against the San Francisco Giants, Sep 13, 2024) 

In the last 4 weeks, Buster Posey and the San Francisco Giants Head Office have made two significant moves: signing outfielder Harrison Bader from the Philadelphia Phillies, and 2nd baseman Luis Arraez from the San Diego Padres. Jung Hoo Lee’s performance has lacked, not in fielding but in his ability to make outs off of throws to the infield, with the signing of Bader, the team keeps about the same fielding value of Lee but with a stronger arm. With the signing of Luis Arraez, the team gains a consistent bat for leadoff hitting, but loses the power and consistency of Casey Schmitt on both defense and offense. 

(Philadelphia Phillies Center-Fielder Harrison Bader Picks Up A Hit Against The LA Dodgers in the 2025 NLDS)

As good as the acquisition of these players can be, it takes away the attention which fans claim “needed” to be allotted to the bullpen and pitching rotation. This is one of the biggest points of contention among fans, with them practically begging the main office to pick up another strong starting pitcher such as Framber Valdez, a pitcher from the Houston Astros who is known for his endurance and ability to create outs.  

Although, the main office did pick up two promising starters: Adrian Houser (a pitcher from the Tampa Bay Rays who had his breakout season in 2025) and Tyler Mahle (a starting pitcher from the Texas Rangers who had one of his career best seasons in 2025), as well as two relievers: Sam Hentges, and Jason Foley, for the rotation. 

“We’re happy with our rotation right now… with some of the adjustments that Houser made last year, and we feel like Mahle’s in a good place physically. You’re never going to close doors, but we feel good with the group that we have.” President of Baseball Operations Buster Posey said in a recent interview. 

Overall, it seems like the main office has done a good job at filling the gaps left behind after the Giants’ 82-82 season in 2025, though fans will always be unsatisfied, this squad will likely subvert expectations and entertain accordingly.