While it has been another disappointing offseason for the San Francisco Giants, a new report suggests they are in the running to make the last big splash before the start of Spring Training.
For the second straight winter, the Giants have been left out in the cold when it comes to major free-agent signings. Last year they swung and missed — for various reasons — on 2022 American League MVP Aaron Judge and All-Star shortstop Carlos Correa. This time around it was a trio of Japanese free agents in Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, and Shota Imanaga.
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It adds to growing frustration in the fanbase as the team has had a pair of .500 or worse seasons following an impressive 107-win campaign three years ago. It’s led to a manager change and speculation that the San Francisco Giants organization has lost its appeal to big-time free agents in the sport.
However, there may be new hope for one big move before Spring Training.
San Francisco Giants a contender to sign Blake Snell before Spring Training?
Reigning NL Cy Young Blake Snell is still on the free agent market despite being, arguably, the best pitcher in this year’s free agent class. However, a high asking price has allegedly scared off all potential suitors. Nevertheless, he will eventually sign with a team for the new season and New York Post MLB insider Jon Heyman speculated on the teams still in the Snell chase, including the Giants.
“I’m not going to be shocked if it’s a surprise team late for Snell,” he said. “The other teams I could see, I’m going to say Boston, San Francisco Giants, Los Angeles Angels — those are teams that could be in the mix for Snell in the near term.”
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At this point, it is hard to feel confident about the Giants’ chances. But the organization does have the money to lure a player like Snell if other teams are unwilling to meet his asking price. The move would also hurt division rivals the San Diego Padres.