UPDATE: The San Francisco Giants have made a significant move, signing right-hander Adrian Houser to a two-year deal with a club option for 2028, officially announced this morning. With this addition, the team now focuses on securing a fifth starter as the offseason progresses.
During a call with reporters earlier today, general manager Zack Minasian emphasized the team’s commitment to adding two starting pitchers this offseason, while also giving younger arms the chance to develop. “I think there’s seven or eight players; if we can’t develop a couple of those, shame on us,” Minasian stated, highlighting the depth of their internal options.
The Giants are not short of internal candidates, including Hayden Birdsong, Carson Whisenhunt, and Blade Tidwell. However, these players lack extensive success in the major leagues, raising questions about their readiness for a full season. Birdsong, for instance, performed well for two months before losing command and being sent down to Triple-A Sacramento.
As the Giants assess their options, they are unlikely to pursue high-priced free agents like Framber Valdez or Chris Bassitt. Still, several intriguing starters remain available as 2023 comes to a close. Notable names include former All-Star Zac Gallen and veteran Max Scherzer, who despite his age, has showcased resilience in high-stakes games.
Minasian acknowledged the unpredictability of young pitchers, stating, “We witnessed firsthand the volatility of young starting pitchers last season.” He added that adding another proven starter would not only strengthen the rotation but also allow young talents like Birdsong and Whisenhunt more time to mature.
Houser, who turns 33 in February, brings a solid track record from last season, posting a 3.31 ERA over 21 starts with the White Sox and Rays. Despite an inconsistent career, Minasian is optimistic that Houser’s recent mechanical adjustments could enhance his performance moving forward. “He talked about getting more into his backside, which led to a two-mile-per-hour velocity increase,” he explained.
The Giants are also preparing for additional roster moves to accommodate Houser on the 40-man roster. In a related update, the team confirmed that right-handed reliever Jason Foley, who underwent shoulder surgery last May, will not return until midseason.
As the offseason unfolds, the Giants remain focused on enhancing their pitching depth. Minasian stated, “We’ve talked since the beginning of the offseason that it would be ideal to add two starting pitchers.”
Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as San Francisco continues to navigate the free-agent market and refine their roster ahead of the 2024 season. The urgency to solidify the pitching rotation could set the tone for the Giants’ success in the coming year.
