Hot Stove League Update: Giants Minor League Free Agents

The Giants have an unusually large class of minor leaguers who are eligible and declared themselves free agents(Thanks to Around the Foghorn for compiling a list):

Darren Baker 2B

Will Brennan OF

Alex Carrillo RHP

R. J. Dabovich RHP

Andrew Knizner C

Eddys Leonard SS/OF

Wilkin Ramos RHP

Joel Kuhnel RHP

Osleivis Basabe IF

Aeverson Arteaga SS

Cristian Alvarado RHP

Manuel Mercedes RHP

Esmerlin Vinicio LHP

Onil Perez C

Jose Ramos OF/IF

Marlon Franco RHP

In addition, the Giants Transaction Log lists the following players who were released:

Gerson Rivero RHP

Jeyson Moya SS

Fernando Estrella RHP

Juan Colorado SS

Boris Sarduy 2B

Delvis Heredia RHP

Any names on these lists who make you stop and say, "oh no!  Not him!?"

Hot Stove League Update: Black Monday

The Giants had to remove 10 players from the 40-man roster to make room for the mandatory activation of players coming off the 60-day IL.  The names were not at all surprising but some of the destinations were.  Let's break it down:

Jose Butto RHP was claimed off waivers by the Rangers. 

Duncan Davitt RHP was claimed off waivers by the Reds.

Brett Harris IF and Shay Whitcomb were claimed off waivers by the Phillies.

Zach Morgan C was claimed off waivers by the Orioles.

Tristan Beck RHP was placed on unconditional release waivers.

Joel Kuhnel RHP and Seth Lonsway LHP were outrighted to AAA Sacramento.

Reiver Sanmartin LHP was DFA'd.

The Giants declined an option on Rowan Wick RHP.  He remains on the 40-man roster, at least for now, as an arbitration eligible player.

Hot Stove Update: Giants Trade Nate Furman

The Giants were able to clear another spot on the 40-man roster by trading Nate Furman 2B to the Washington Nationals for Tony Neubeck LHP.  Let's break it down:

Nate Furman 2B:  DOB:  7/23/2001.  B-L, T-L.  5' 8", 173 lbs.  On 40-man roster, 3 Options.

2026(AAA):  .293/.377/.414, 25 2B, 3B, 7 HR, 19 SB, 11.1 BB%, 11.8 K%, 468 PA.

2026(MLB):  .125/.243/.125, 12.8 BB%, 25.6 K%, 39 PA.

Furman was called up to stand in the gap during a wave of injuries.  There was no way he was going to stick on the Giants 40-man roster through the winter.  He is a decent contact hitter but limited to 2B defensively and has little power.  The fact a team was willing to trade for him means he was going to get claimed off waivers so getting something for him is better than nothing.

Tony Neubeck LHP:  DOB:  5/12/2003.  6' 2", 229 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2029.

2026(College-Indiana):  7-4, 3.95, 70.2 IP, 9.55 K/9, 3.44 BB/9.

2026(A):  0-0, 0.00, 6 IP, 12.00 K/9, 1.50 BB/9, 4.00 GB/FB.

It finally looks like someone in the Giants organization recognizes the importance of development time for prospects and how limiting the Rule 5 draft can be.  Neubeck was an undrafted free agent for the Nationals in 2026 but pitched well for a major college program.  He's a stout lefty built not unlike "Tugboat" Wilkinson.  A scouting report posted in the comment section of the McCovey Chronicles article has him with a mid-90's FB with some life and a fading changeup he uses as an out pitch.  A slider and cutter are complimentary pitches.  Good job by the Giants pro scouts to essentially get something for nothing out of this trade.

Hot Stove League Update: Let the Games Begin!

 The Giants wasted no time once the World Series officially ended in firing up the old hot stove to keep warm for the winter while hopefully wheeling and dealing their way to a better roster.  Five players were voted off the roster island with three stayed in the organization and two moved on to what they hope is greener pastures for them.

Matt Gage LHP was reinstated from the 60-day IL, cleared waivers and was outrighted to AAA Sacramento.

Osleivis Basabe IF cleared waivers and was outrighted to AAA Sacramento.

Jason Foley RHP cleared waivers and was outrighted to AAA Sacramento.

Grant McCray OF was claimed off waivers by the Mariners.

Braxton Roxby RHP was claimed off waivers by the Nationals.  

Look for more announcements in quick succession in coming days.

Giants Organizational Depth Charts: Starting Pitching

Pitching depth charts get challenging due to the shear numbers of maintaining a 5-man starting rotation.  the Giants bolstered their organizational pitching depth over the past 2 years with trades and the 2026 draft.  While a few pitchers emerged from the international ranks, the focus of Giants international signings is on position players.  

MLB:

Logan Webb RHP:  DOB:  11/18/1996.  6' 2 ", 221 lbs.  Under Contract through 2028($18 M AAV).

2026(MLB):  8-9, 4.31, 160.2 IP, 7.51 K/9, 2.30 BB/9, 1.70 GB/FB.  vFA= 92.4.

Landen Roupp RHP:  DOB:  9/10/1998.  6' 2", 220 lbs.  2 Options. Arb Eligible 2028, Free Agent 2030.

2026(MLB: 9-14, 4.01, 155 IP, 8.30 K/9, 4.35 BB/9, 1.44 GB/FB.  vFA= 92.8.  

Anthony Molina RHP:  DOB:  1/12/2002.  6' 1", 170 lbs.  1 Option.

2026(MLB- 2 teams):  3-2, 3.97, 34 IP, 8.21 K/9, 1.85 BB/9. vFA= 96.4

Cesar Perdomo LHP:  DOB:  2/9/2002.  5' 10", 219 lbs.  3 Options.

2026(AA):  2-4, 3.98, 72.1 IP, 11.07 K/9, 2.74 BB/9

2026(AAA):  7-2, 5.10, 47.2 IP, 6.80 K/9, 3.78 BB/9.

2026(MLB):  0-1, 3.65, 24.2 IP, 5.11 K/9, 2.55 BB/9. vFA= 93.0.

Yunior Marte RHP:  DOB:  8/9/2003.  6' 6", 236 lbs.  3 Options.

2026(A+):  6-1, 3.74, 43.1 IP, 8.52 K/9, 3.95 BB/9.

2026(AA):  2-4, 3.92, 64.1 IP, 10.07 K/9, 3.08 BB/9.

2026(MLB):  0-2, 4.44, 24.1 IP, 5.55 K/9, 3.70 BB/9, vFA= 93.0.

Miguel Mendez RHP:  DOB:  7/1/2002.  6' 2", 165 lbs.  2 Options.

2026(A-SFG):  0-0. 3.86, 2.1 IP, 3.86 K/9, 7.71 BB/9.  

2026(A+- SDP):  0-0, 4.50, 2 IP, 9.00 K/9, 0.00 BB/9.

2026(AA-SDP):  2-2, 4.93, 34.2 IP, 9.87 K/9, 4.41 BB/9.

2026(AA-SFG):  0-1, 8.44, 10.2 IP, 12.66 K/9, 4.22 BB/9.

Adrian Houser RHP:  DOB:  2/2/1993.  6' 4", 227 lbs.  Under Contract through 2027(AAV= $11 M), Club Option for 2028.

2026(MLB):  4-7, 4.02, 109.2 IP, 6.16 K/9, 2.79 BB/9.  vFA= 95.7.

Hayden Birdsong RHP: DOB:  8/30/2001.  6' 5", 225 lbs.  2 Options.

2026(MLB):  DNP.  Underwent "Tommy John" Surgery 3/25/2026.

Logan Webb is the ace but is coming off a down year possibly due to fatigue from participating in the WBC.  As he enters his age 30 season he has built up a lot of mileage on the arm.  Can he bounce back?  Roupp is a similar pitcher who probably should be a #3 or 4 SP on a good team.  Adrian Houser's numbers improved dramatically after a demotion to the bullpen but also coincided with a decision to let pitchers call their own games.  He should rejoin the rotation.  The rest of the depth chart is a collection of young arms who may or may not take the next step forward.  Trevor McDonald RHP, Carson Whisenhunt LHP and Blade Tidwell RHP will miss all of 2027 recovering from "Tommy John" surgery but remain on the longer term depth chart.  This group could obviously use an addition of at least one mid-rotation or better veteran pitcher for 2027.

AAA:

Joe Whitman LHP:  DOB:  9/17/2001.  6' 4", 215 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible.

2026(AA):  5-1, 3.22, 50.1 IP, 11.62 K/9, 2.32 BB/9, 1.52 GB/FB.

2026(AAA):  4-5, 3.74, 84.1 IP, 7.36 K/9, 2.45 BB/9, 1.22 GB/FB.

Trystan Vrieling RHP:  DOB:  10/2/2000.  6' 4", 217 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible.

2026(AA):  5-2, 4.23, 106.1 IP, 8.29 K/9, 5.25 BB/9.

2026(AAA):  0-2, 9.68, 17.2 IP, 12.74 K/9, 7.13 BB/9.

John Michael Bertrand LHP:  DOB:  2/8/1998.  6' 3", 238 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible.

2026(AAA):  5-3, 5.37, 6.04 K/9, 4.84 BB/9, 1.78 GB/FB.

Joe Whitman had a strong season across two levels.  It's not clear to me why he did not get a look at the MLB level after injuries ravaged the rotation since he must be added to the 40-man roster to protect him from the Rule 5 Draft anyway.

AA:

Jackson Flora RHP:  DOB:  5/25/2005.  6' 5", 205 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2029.

2026(College):  12-0, 1.06, 102 IP, 11.74 K/9, 2.82 BB/9. 

2026(MiLB):  0-0, 0.00, 5 IP, 3 BB, 10 K.

Jacob Bresnahan LHP:  DOB:  6/27/2005.  6' 3", 220 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2027.

2026(A+):  7-3, 2.92, 98.2 IP, 10.76 K/9, 3.47 BB/9.

2026(AA):  1-1, 5.06, 16.0 IP, 9.56 K/9, 3.94 BB/9.

Greg Farone LHP:  DOB:  5/3/2002.  6' 5", 252 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2027.

5-11, 5.48, 110.0 IP, 8.75 K/9, 4.91 BB/9.

Henry Lalane LHP:  DOB:  5/18/2004.  6' 7", 211 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible.

2026(A- NYY):  4-1, 2.74, 62.1 IP, 11.70 K/9, 3.18 BB/9, 1.73 GB/FB.

2026(A+-NYY):  0-0, 2.87, 15.2 IP, 9.77 K/9, 2.30 BB/9, 1.06 GB/FB.

2026(A+-SFG):  1-1, 4.57, 21.2 IP, 6.65 K/9, 3.32 BB/9, 2.00 GB/FB.

Niko Mazza RHP:  DOB:  2/19/2002.  5' 10", 193 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2027.

2026(A+):  6-5, 4.15, 95.1 IP, 10.38 K/9, 5.19 BB/9, 1.49 GB/FB.

2026(AA):  0-2, 7.00, 9 IP, 9.00 K/9, 2.00 BB/9, 1.50 GB/FB.

Charlie McDaniel LHP:  DOB:  7/4/2001.  6' 3", 208 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2027.

2026(A+):  3-1, 3.99, 38.1 IP, 9.16 K/9, 1.88 BB/9.

2026(AA):  3-5, 6.02, 80.2 IP, 6.69 K/9, 3.12 BB/9.

Tyler Switalski LHP:  DOB:  6/18/2003.  6' 4", 248 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2027.

2026(A+):  2-5, 4.22, 74.2 IP, 11.33 K/9, 3.50 BB/9.

2026(AA):  1-4, 9.00, 26 IP, 8.65 K/9, 5.19 BB/9.

Jackson Flora is the big name here.  Expect him to start the season in AA Richmond but move up quickly if he performs well and possibly make his MLB debut as early as midseason.  The Giants as an organization have a lot riding on him.  The common theme with the rest of the list is pitches who performed well at A+ level but hit a wall after promotion to AA.  That's interesting because the AA Eastern League was historically a soft spot for Giants pitching prospects.  

A+:

Hunter Dryden RHP:  DOB:  6/10/1002.  5' 9", 184 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2027.

2026(A+):  5-5, 4/47, 106.2 IP, 9.62 K/9, 4.30 BB/9.

Luis De La Torre LHP:  DOB:  9/6/2003.  5' 11", 209 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible.

2026(A+):  3-7, 5.81, 100.2 IP, 11.26 K/9, 7.33 BB/9.  

Jordan Gottesman LHP:  DOB:  8/29/2002.  6' 1", 182 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2028.

2026(A):  7-1, 3.96, 102.1 IP, 9.76 K/9, 2.99 BB/9.

2026(A+):  0-0, 1.93, 4.2 IP, 3.86 K/9, 1.93 BB/9.

Ramon Marquez RHP:  DOB:  9/19/2005.  6' 2", 182 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2028.

2026(A-PHI):  3-0, 1.86, 29.0 IP, 14.59 K/9, 3.10 BB/9, 1.86 GB/FB.

2026(A+-PHI):  3-1, 1.50, 30.0 IP, 13.80 K/9, 2.70 BB/9, 2.25 GB/FB.

2026(A+- SFG):  1-1, 5.40, 10.0 IP, 10.80 K/9, 0.90 BB/9, 3.00 GB/FB.

Hayden Wynja LHP:  DOB:  10/14/1998.  6' 8", 232 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible. 

2026(MiLB- 3 levels):  3-0, 3.52, 23 IP, 11.35 K/9, 4.30 BB/9.

Marquez is the top prospect here, acquired in the Arraez trade to the Phillies.  Gottesman put up nice numbers.  He is a smallish lefty whose FB tops out at 93 MPH, at least when I saw him pitch.  I could see him gaining velocity if he can bulk up his frame a bit.  Wynja showed up late in the season after recovering from elbow surgery.  As I have said many times, 6' 8" LHP's don't grow on trees.   

A:  

Argenis Cayama RHP:  DOB:  9/15/2006.  6' 0", 204 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2028

2026(A):  4-2, 4.87, 57.1 IP, 11.46 K/9, 2.67 BB/9, 2.24 GB/FB.

Keyner Martinez RHP:  DOB:  8/16/2004.  6' 1", 209 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2027.

2026(A):  4-5, 4.61, 93.2 IP, 12.88 K/9, 4.52 BB/9.

Leandro Rodriguez LHP:  DOB:  11/15/2005.  5' 11", 212 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2028

2026(ACL):  1-2, 4.18, 47.1 IP, 11.03 K/9, 2.09 BB/9.

2026(A):  1-0, 4.34, 29 IP, 9.00 K/9, 4.66 BB/9.

Cayama is the best prospect here.  I got several looks at Keyner Martinez.  He looked great in short stretches but seemed to fatigue quickly and struggle out of the stretch.  

ACL: 

Carson Boleman LHP:  DOB:  4/5/2007.  6' 4", 215 lbs.  Drafted #29 overall 2026.

Kaeden Waechter RHP:  DOB:  8/3/2007.  6' 3", 190 lbs.  Drafted Round 2 #55 overall 2026.

Luke Mensik RHP:  DOB:  7/30/2007.  6' 1", 199 lbs.  

2026(ACL):  0-4, 6.25, 40.1 IP, 9.60 K/9, 4.46 BB/9, 1.49 GB/FB.

Carlos De La Rosa LHP:  DOB:  11/30/2007.  5' 10", 193 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2029.

2026(ACL):  4-3, 6.55, 44.0 IP, 9.61 K/9, 5.52 BB/9, 1.76 GB/FB.

The Giants have historically had good success developing high school pitchers. They hope that route pays off bigly for Boleman and Waechter, but the payoff likely won't be for 3 or 4 seasons ahead.

Giants Organizational Depth Charts: Right Field

We talk a lot about how the Giants are stuck with albatross contracts at third base and shortstop but right field might be as big or bigger problem after Jung Hoo Lee's second half collapse in 2026.  There is not a lot of depth behind him although RF is a potential position for Bo Davidson.  The ideal right fielder is a player who can hit 30 home runs and has a cannon for an arm to throw out runners at third base.  Catchers who aren't great behind the plate and who can run a little sometimes make good RF's because they have great throwing arms.  Let's break it down.

MLB:

Jung Hoo Lee:  DOB:  8/20/1998.  B- L, T-R.  6' 0", 196 lbs.  Under contract through 2029 with opt-out after 2027.  AAV= $18.83 M.

2026(MLB):  .276/.320/.404, 31 2B, 4 3B, 10 HR, 12 SB, 5.0 BB%, 9.8 K%, 579 PA, 1.0 fWAR.

2026(2'nd Half):  .236/.298/.365, 208 PA.

2026(vs L):  .243/.275/.337, 169 PA.

Bo Davidson: DOB:  7/5/2002.  B-L, T-R.  6' 1", 225 lbs.  3 Options.

2026(AA):  .277/.340/.521, 19 HR, 14 SB, 8.9 BB%, 23.5 K%, 315 PA.

2026(AAA):  .309/.389/.534, 10 HR, 6 SB, 10.7 BB%, 18.8 K%, 234 PA.

2026(MLB):  .350/.364/.350, 22 PA.

Grant McCray:  DOB:  12/7/2000.  B-L, T-R.  6' 1", 195 lbs.  1 Option.

2026(AAA):  .233/.352/.356, 4 HR, 12 SB, 15.2 BB%, 23.0 K%, 244 PA.

2026(MLB):  .143/.250/.273, 2 HR, 8 SB, 12.1 BB%, 30.8 K%, 91 PA.

We'll make an exception to the one position per player rule and list Bo Davidson in CF and RF.  We could actually list him at all 3 OF positions.  It comes down to 4 interlocking positions and which alignment we think gives the Giants the best lineup. 2B, LF, CF, RF:  Marcelo Mayer 2B, Casey Schmitt 2B/LF, Jonah Cox 2B/CF, Drew Gilbert CF(platoon only), Jung Hoo Lee RF and Bo Davidson CF/RF/LF.  Davidson has the least MLB experience but has by far the highest ceiling.

AAA:  None.

AA:

Jack Payton:  DOB:  8/7/2001.  B-R, T-R.  5' 11", 209 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible.

2026(A+):  .259/.355/.556, 2 HR, 2 SB, 9.7 BB%, 22.6 K%, 31 PA.

2026(AA):  .270/.340/.369, 3 HR, 8 SB, 8.8 BB%, 21.5 K%, 297 PA.

Drafted as a catcher.  Hasn't really hit enough to be a serious OF prospect.

A+:  

Cam Maldonado:  DOB:  11/8/2003.  B-R, T-R.  6' 2", 199 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2028.

2026(A):  .263/.341/.484, 12 2B, 4 3B, 14 HR, 17 SB, 10.5 BB%, 26.0 K%, 323 PA.

2026(A+):  .284/.368/.654, 8 HR, 5 SB, 9.4 BB%, 22.9 K%, 96 PA.

Very intriguing first full pro season.  Power really came on late in the season.  You can close your eyes and dream of a future Giants OF with Bo Davidson in CF and Cam in RF.

A:

Charlie Bussey III:  DOB:    B-R, T-R.  6' 2", 205 lbs.  Drafted 2026 Round 11.

2026(College- Francis Marion):  .489/.604/.866, 21 HR, 40 SB, 18.5 BB%, 8.1 K%, 308 PA.

2026(Cape Cod):  .222/.462/.259, 6 SB, 23.1 BB%, 17.9 K%, 39 PA.

Broedy Poppell:  DOB:  6/13/2002.  B-S, T-R.  5' 11", 200 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2028.

2026(A):  .246/.359/.408, 14 2B, 2 3B, 8 HR, 15 SB, 12.3 BB%, 27.7 K%, 310 PA.

Poppell was also drafted as a catcher but seemed to be off the catcher depth chart in San Jose.  Briefly sent down to the ACL where he played catcher then back up to San Jose where he played OF.  Bussey has yet to play in a pro game.

ACL: 

Carter Rust:  DOB:  8/13/2002.  B-R, T-R.  6' 4", 190 lbs.  

2026(College- West Chester):  .348/.415/.561, 9 HR, 33 SB, 8.6 BB%, 9.9 K%, 232 PA.

Evan Estevez:  DOB:  8/14/2007.  B-R, T-R.  6' 2", 213 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2028.

2026(ACL):  .239/.345/.410, 7 HR, 3 SB, 13.1 BB%, 38.0 K%, 221 PA.

Carlos Concepcion:  DOB:  1/6/2006.  B-R, T-R.  6' 1", 189 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2027.

2026(ACL):  .238/.315/.364, 4 HR, 7.7 BB%, 38.5 K%, 169 PA.

Rust was an undrafted free agent who has yet to play a pro game.  Estevez and Concepcion both also play 1B.

Giants Organizational Depth Charts: Center Field

Center Field is a unique defensive position requiring distinctly different tools and skills than the corners.  It's therefore difficult to find centerfielders who are both great defenders and hitters.  Willie Mays really was the GOAT.  

MLB:

Drew Gilbert:  DOB:  9/27/2000.  B-L, T-L. 5' 9", 195 lbs.  2 Options, Arb Eligible 2029, Free Agent 2032.

2026(AAA):  .289/.389/.400, 2 2B, HR, 10.7 BB%, 8.9 K%, 56 PA.

2026(MLB):  .238/.330/.394, 14 2B, 3 3B, 11 HR, 3 SB, 393 PA.

Jonah Cox:  DOB:  8/4/2001.  B-R, T-R.  6' 2", 204 lbs.  3 Options.

2026(AA):  .400/.453/.644, 11 2B, 5 3B, 6 HR, 27 SB, 8.7 BB%, 16.9 K%, 183 PA.

2026(AAA):  .468/.519/.660, 4 2B, 3B, HR, 7 SB, 9.6 BB%, 17.3 K%, 52 PA.

2026(MLB):  .252/.298/.384, 4 2B, 2 3B, 4 HR, 16 SB, 5.9 BB%, 38.5 K%, 169 PA.

Grant McCray:  DOB:  12/7/2000.  B-L, T-R.  6' 1", 195 lbs.  1 Option.

2026(AAA):  .233/.352/.356, 11 2B, 3B, 4 HR, 12 SB, 15.2 BB%, 23.0 K%, 244 PA. 

2026(MLB:  .143/.250/.273, 2 2B, 3B, 2 HR, 8 SB, 12.1 BB%, 30.8 K%, 91 PA. 

Bo Davidson:  DOB:  7/5/2002.  B- L, T-R.  6' 1", 225 lbs.  3 Options.

2026(AA):  .277/.340/.521, 12 2B, 19 HR, 14 SB, 8.9 BB%, 23.5 K%, 315 PA.

2026(AAA):  .309/.389/.534, 14 2B, 3B, 10 HR, 6 SB, 10.7 BB%, 18.6 K%, 234 PA.

2026(MLB):  .350/.364/.350, SB, 4.5 BB%, 31.8 K%, 22 PA.

Harrison Bader:  DOB:  6/3/1994.  B-R, T-R.  5' 11", 219 lbs.  Under Contract $10 M(10.25 AAV)- suspended July 2026 due to potential violation of standard player contract rules.  Free Agent 2028

2026(MLB):  .170/.198/.358, 5 2B, 5 HR, 3.6 BB%, 30.6 K%, 111 PA.  

Although Bader is technically still under contract for 2027, consensus of beat writers is he has probably played his last game in a Giants uniform.  Gilbert and Cox would make a nice L-R platoon, but what does Bo Davidson have to prove in AAA?  He's got the incredibly high ceiling. If he is ready, it would be criminal mismanagement to deny him the opportunity to be the Opening Day CF.  Of course he could also play RF but what to do with Lee?  Another possible alignment would be Davidson in LF, Gilbert/Cox in CF, Lee in RF and Casey Schmitt at 2B.  But make no mistake, Davidson is the one guy in this list with superstar potential.  The Giants desperately need to give him the opportunity.

AAA:  None

AA:  

Dakota Jordan:  DOB:  5/9/2003.  B-R, T-R.  6' 0", 231 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2027.

2026(A+):  .290/.346/.533, 22 2B, 3B, 18 HR, 15 SB, 7.9 BB%, 27.6 K%, 355 PA.

2026(AA):  .253/.330/.367, 6 2B, HR, 6 SB, 10.2 BB%, 29.5 K%, 88 PA.

Trevor Cohen:   DOB:  10/29/2003.  B-L, T-L.  5' 11", 192 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2028.

2026(A+):  .297/.387/.416, 26 2B, 2 3B, 3 HR, 26 SB, 12.6 BB%, 13.7 K%, 380 PA.

2026(AA):  .300/.342/.394, 7 2B, 2 3B, 3 HR, 20 SB, 6.1 BB%, 9.6 K%, 228 PA.

Trevor Cohen is the God of Contact.  He's a conventional slap and dash CF prospect.  Dakota Jordan is a unique talent with both power and speed.  Built like a football running back or linebacker.  His AA promotion was delayed by an injury but he has exceeded expectations at every level so far.  

A+:  

Jose Ortiz:  DOB:  2/13/2005.  B-R, T-R.  5' 9", 192 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2027.

2026(ACL):  .400/.500/.1.600, 2 HR, 0.0 BB%, 16.7 K%, 6 PA.

2026(A+):  .143/.208/.163, 2 SB, 7.4 BB%, 35.2 K%, 54 PA.

Tooled up athlete whose development is delayed by a series of injuries.  He needs to stay healthy!

A:  

Andy Polanco:  DOB:  4/29/2005, B-R, T-R.  6' 3", 181 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2027.

2026(A):  .288/.332/.396, 18 2B, 9 3B, HR, 38 SB, 4.8 BB%, 30.5 K%, 393 PA.

Peyton Bonds:  DOB:  7/19/2005.  B-R, T-R.  6' 5", 230 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2029.

2026(College-Rutgers):  .352/.436/.535/.8 2B, 6 HR, 13 SB, 9.6 BB%, 12.7 K%, 166 PA.

2026(A):  .286/.333/.286, 6.7 BB%, 26.7 K%, 15 PA.

Tanner Mally:  DOB:  8/18/2004.  B-R, T-R.  6' 0", 185 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2029.

2026(College- Western Michigan):  .446/.554./528, 12 2B, 2 3B, 19 SB, 9.9 BB%, 5.3 K%, 243 PA.

2026(A):  .383/.523/.494, 3 2B, 3 3B,  8 SB, 18.7 BB%, 15.0 K%, 107 PA.

Not sure what to make of Andy Polanco.  He has a long, lean body that does not appear particularly athletic.  Runs like a gazelle in the OF.  Long levers appear to make him vulnerable to hard stuff inside.  Peyton Bonds has the pedigree.  Looking forward to seeing more of him next season.  Tanner Mally is a Singles Sensation with zero power.  

ACL:

Luis Frias:  DOB:  8/7/2004.  B-R, T-R.  5' 11", 155 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible.

2026(ACL):  .236/.368/.338, 4 2B, 3B, HR, 13 SB, 6.7 BB%, 23.0 K%, 178 PA.

Josiah Kemp:  DNP.  Drafted out of high school 2026, Round 11.

Frias finally made it to Arizona after 4 DSL seasons and is already Rule 5 Eligible.  Could be odd man out in fierce competition for OF playing time.  Josiah Kemp is Matt Kemp's nephew and looks like his unc.  Here's what Perfect Game said about him:  "Long and athletic outfielder with huge projection, bouncy fast twitch athlete with CF tools, outstanding at PG 16U World Series, PG underclass AA games." Can't wait to see him play.

Giants Organizational Depth Charts: Left Field

It's hard to project outfielders to any one outfield position.  Center field requires specific skills but the corners are often interchangeable.  Many corner outfielders started out in center field.  I will try my best project the outfielders to their likely position and only list them once to avoid repetition but keep in mind these are only my best estimates and there is a lot of overlap.  If you don't see your favorite outfielder's name on this list, do not fear.  Stay tuned for future posts on center field and right field.

MLB:  

Casey Schmitt: DOB:  3/1/1999.  B-R, T-R.  6' 0", 215 lbs.  1 Option, Arb Eligible 2027, Free Agent 2030.

2026(MLB):  .271/.301/.483, 21 HR, 9 SB, 2.7 BB%, 19.8 K%, 409 PA.

Turner Hill:  DOB:  4/4/1999.  B-L, T-L.  5' 10", 198 lbs.  3 Options.

2026(AA):  .344/.476/.531, 19.0 BB%, 11.9 K%, 42 PA.

2026(AAA):  .353/.420/.529, 22 2B, 4 3B, 9 HR, 11.1 BB%, 8.8 K%, 407 PA.

2026(MLB):  .219/.306/.314, 7 2B, HR, 2 SB, 10.5 BB%, 16.9 K%, 124 PA.

Victor Bericoto:  DOB:  12/3/2001.  B-R, T-R.  6' 1", 210 lbs.  3 Options.

2026(AAA):  .288/.341/.423, 8 2B, 3B, 6 HR, 7.4 BB%, 20.1 K%, 229 PA.

2026(MLB):  .241/.267/.420, 5 2B, 5 HR, 3.4 BB%, 27.6 K%, 116 PA.

Scott Bandura:  DOB:  8/2/2001.  B- L, T-R.  6' 3", 190 lbs.  3 Options.

2026(AA):  .324/.430/.479, 9 2B, 2 3B, 3 HR, 10 SB, 14.4 BB%, 17.2 K%, 174 PA.

2026:(AAA):  .318/.398/.492, 28 2B, 3 3B, 10 HR, 11.2 BB%, 14.2 K%, 430 PA.

2026(MLB):  .207/.233/.241, 3.3 BB%, 56.7 K%, 30 PA.

Schmitt should start next season at either 2B or LF.  Hill, Bericoto and Bandura all have 3 options. Is there room on the 40-man roster for all 3?

AAA:  

Will Brennan:  DOB:  2/2/1998.  B-L, T-L.  5' 11", 205 lbs.  1 Option, Free Agent 2027.  

2026(AAA):  .302/.339/.468, 24 2B, 3 3B, 11 HR, 6 SB, 4.6 BB%, 11.0 K%, 410 PA

2026(MLB):  .087/.087/.087, 23 PA.  

I think this means Brennan is eligible for minor league free agency.  Do the Giants still need his depth in AAA?

AA:

Lisbel Diaz:  DOB:  7/19/2005.  B-R, T-R.  6' 2", 204 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2027.

2026(A):  .250/.357/.625, 3 HR, 14.3 BB%, 17.9 K%, 28 PA.

2026(A+):  .284/.312/.531, 17 2B, 2 3B, 21 HR, 9 SB, 3.6 BB%, 16.7 K%, 360 PA.

2026(AA):  .193/.213/.284, 2 2B, 2 HR, 8 SB, 2.1 BB%, 26.6 K%, 94 PA.

Jose Astudillo:  DOB:  2/27/2004.  B-R, T-R.  5' 9", 172 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible.

2026(A):  .335/.388/.503, 10 2B, 3B, 6 HR, 11 SB, 6.5 BB%, 7.0 K%, 199 PA.

2026(A+):  .333/.400/.381, 3 2B, 7 SB, 9.9 BB%, 7.0 K%, 71 PA.

2026(AA):  .220/.281/.254, 2 2B, 4 SB, 7.6 BB%, 12.1 K%, 66 PA.

Diaz has some pop.  K/BB profile similar to Casey Schmitt.  Think of the AA line as a head start on next season.  Astudillo is a high contact/low power profile.

A+:

Damian Bravo:  DOB:  9/8/2003.  B-R, T-R.  6' 1", 200 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2028.

2026(A):  .291/.351/.509, 16 2B, 3B, 10 HR, 7 SB, 6.0 BB%, 21.4 K%, 248 PA.

2026(A+):  .258/.347/.530, 6 2B, 4 HR, 4 SB, 10.7 BB%, 29.3 K%, 75 PA.

K rate went up after promotion to A+.  That's probably where he will start next season.

A: 

Oliver Tejada:  DOB:  12/9/2006.  B-R, T-R.  5' 9", 189 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2028.

2026(ACL):  .320/.386/.533, 9 2B, 2 3B, HR, SB, 4.8 BB%, 19.3 K%, 83 PA.

2026(A):  .215/.326/.399, 8 2B, 7 HR, 4 SB, 10.2 BB%, 28.3 K%, 187 PA.

Short, wiry kid who showed a little pop after promotion to full season ball.  

ACL:

Rayner Arias:  DOB:  4/29/2006.  B-R, T-R.  6' 0", 206 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2027.

2026(ACL):  .196/.342/.361, 4 2B, 4 HR, 3 SB, 10.8 BB%, 32.5 K%, 120 PA.

Oh my!  Up to now Arias' problems could be attributed to injuries.  Either he lost too much development time or he has residual long term deficits from the injuries.  2027 might be his last chance to turn it around.

More Thoughts on the Postseason

A funny thing happened on the way to the World Series and subsequent MLB CBA negotiations.  The narrative was small market/low payroll teams can't compete with over-spending teams like the Dodgers, and not without evidence.  12 teams made the postseason.  Per USA Today 10/15/2026, 8 of those 12 teams are in the top 10 in payroll.  Except there are now three teams left in the postseason and the highest ranking team in payroll is the Milwaukee Brewers at #19.  The Tampa Bay Rays are #25 and the Cleveland Guardians are dead last at #30 with a payroll of less than $100 M.  The Chicago White Sox, a big market team with a low payroll, made the playoffs with a payroll under $100 M but were eliminated by the Guardians.  

The highest payroll team, the Mets with a payroll almost 5 times the Guardians, did not make the playoffs at all.  The Blue Jays at #5 did not get in.  The Giants, who a large segment of their fanbase thinks do not spend enough on players rank 12'th in spending and since 3 higher spending teams did not get in, the Giants certainly spend enough to be a wild card team.  Maybe that's a too-low aspiration but but they didn't even come close with the 4'th worst record in MLB.  

So, at least for this season, the script is flipped.  Yes, a high payroll increases a team's chances of making the postseason and since they can't win the World Series without being in the postseason it increases chances of winning it all.  But payroll is not the sole determinant of winning.  The Giants did not finish with the fourth worse record in MLB because of low payroll.  They earned that underperformance with bad baseball decisions and maybe a little bad luck thrown in.

The other postseason thought is where do the the Dodgers turn after their complete collapse against the Brewers, a team with less than half their payroll?  The Dodgers had the second highest payroll in MLB tied up in what appears to be a rapidly aging roster.  In that regard, their situation is not completely unlike the Giants.  Do they double down on spending and sign Tarik Skubal to a $500 M contract?  Do they stand pat and hope for a big breakout from their prized prospect, Josue De Paula and other young players from their perennially highly ranked farm system?  Some of that may depend on the outcome of the CBA negotiations in which the other owners adamantly want a hard payroll cap which now looks like it might not be necessary after all.

Giants Organizational Depth Charts: Shortstop

The Giants shortstop position may be the most problematic position in the short term while at the same time having one of the strongest longterm outlooks in all of major league baseball.  The long term challenge is to decide which of a plethora of highly ranked prospects will emerge as their shortstop of the future and likely franchise cornerstone.

MLB:

Willy Adames:  DOB:  9/2/1995.  B-R, T-R.  6' 0", 216 lbs.  Under Contract through 2031.

2026:  .230/.289/.424, 25 2B, 21 HR, 5 SB, 7.3 BB%, 27.5 K%, 505 PA.

Christian Koss:  DOB:  1/27/1998.  B-R, T-R.  6' 1", 185 lbs.  2 Options.  1.00 yr Service Time.

2026(MLB):  .217/.257/.305, 4 HR, 5 SB, 4.1 BB%, 26.7 K%, 221 PA.

Osleivis Basabe:  DOB:  9/13/2000.  B-R, T-R.  5' 11", 197 lb.  1 Option.  .05 yr Service Time.

2026(MLB):  .202/.268/.341, 5 HR, 2 SB, 6.3 BB%, 20.3 K%, 143 PA.

Adames went on the IL due to a left elbow sprain for which he receive a Plasma-Rich Platelet injection but he was apparently already dealing with a nagging back problem(although as Kruk pointed out, it did not keep him from lifting heavy Gatorade jugs).  Buster has no choice but to count on him bouncing back from both injuries and having a strong season.  If he doesn't it's 5 long, painful years of paying down that contract.  Between Koss and Basabe, Koss is the better defender so has the inside track at the utility infielder role.

AAA:  

Aeverson Arteaga:  DOB:  3/16/2003.  B-R, T-R.  5' 11", 201 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible.

2026(AA):  .318/.395/.500, 2 HR, 2 SB, 7.8 BB%, 28.6 K%, 77 PA.

2026(AAA):  .243/.293/.346, 12 2B, 2 3B, 4 HR, 5.9 K%, 23.7 K%, 304 PA.

Zane Zielinski:  DOB:  7/28/2001.  B-R, T-R.  6' 2", 195 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2027.

2026(A+):  .258/.343/.314, 9 2B, 13 SB, 10.3 BB%, 27.2 K%, 184 PA.

2026(AA):  .206/.250/.301, 7 2B, 2 HR, 3 SB, 4.8 BB%, 34.9 K%, 146 PA.

2026(AAA):  .143/.333/.286, 22.2 BB%, 11.1 K%, 9 PA.

Arteaga was once the shortstop of the future before injuries derailed his development.  Neither he nor Zielinski figure into the long term future of the Giants infield at this point.

AA:

Gavin Kilen:  DOB:  3/28/2004.  B-L, T-R.  5' 10", 187 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2028.

2026(A+):  .282/.350/.462, 27 2B, 3B, 9 HR, 9.2 BB%, 13.8 K%, 349 PA.

2026(AA):  .297/.343/.469, 10 2B, 3 3B, 2 HR, 7.7 BB%, 15.4 K%, 143 PA.

Maui Ahuna:  DOB:  3/11/2002.  B-L, T-R.  6' 0", 196 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible.

2026(AA):  .228/.327/.335, 18 2B, 3 3B, 6 HR, 31 SB, 11.5 BB%, 28.9 K%, 460 PA.

Gavin Kilen quietly had a strong season across two levels.  While he did play a little 2B, the vast majority of his innings were at shortstop where word on the street is he has been surprisingly good on defense.  It's not hard to see him being ready for a major league debut by midseason.  Right now there is only one open position for him, second base.  Maui Ahuna has some speed but is otherwise a 3-true outcomes guy without the power.  He's kind of overwhelmed by the abundance of top tier infield prospects in the Giants system.

A+:

Jhonny Level:  DOB:  3/29/2007.  B-S, T-R.  5' 8", 186 lb.  Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2028.

2026(A):  .325/.392/.576, 14 2B, 2 3B, 10 HR, 11 SB, 7.8 BB%, 16.6 K%, 217 PA.

2026(A+):  .302/.363/.473, 25 2B, 3B, 8 HR, 15 SB, 7.9 BB%, 17.5 K%, 331 PA.

What a terrific season for Jhonny Level!  To my eye he is more of a 2B than shortstop but he's a shortstop for now.  The bat is real.  Maxed out physically.  

A:

Josuar Gonzalez:  DOB:  10/16/2007.  B-S, T- R.  5' 10", 178 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2029

2026(ACL):  .343/.451/.515, 7 2B, 2 3B, 2 HR, 8 SB, 16.4 BB%, 20.5 K%, 122 PA.

2026(A):  .357/.444, 556, 6 2B, 6 3B, 3 HR, 13 SB, 13.7 BB%, 19.6 K%, 153 PA.

Luis Hernandez:  DOB:  12/13/2008.  B-R, T-R.  5' 10", 172 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2030.

2026(ACL):  .298/.382/.535, 19 2B, 5 3B, 6 HR, 6 SB, 11.0 BB%, 16.7 K%, 228 PA.

2026(A):  .231/.276/.319, 2 2B, 2 HR, 6.1 BB%, 29.6 K%, 98 PA.

Lorenzo Meola:  DOB:  12/17/2003.  B-R, T-R.  5' 11", 180 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2028.

2026(ACL):  .269/.353/.468, 40 2B, 5 3B, 15 HR, 9.5 BB%, 24.3 K%, 547 PA.

Gonzalez had a terrific season justifying his #1 prospect ranking in the Giants organization.  I saw him hit an absolute rocket of a home run batting from the right side, but he may have less power batting left. PA's limited by a nagging hammy which will hopefully be fully healed by next season. Should move up to A+ to start 2027.  Luis Hernandez also made an impressive debut in the ACL as a 17 year old.  Struggled a bit more after a promotion to A ball where he will likely start next season. He played 3B when he and Gonzalez were on the field at the same time.  I saw him make a big league throw from foul territory behind 3B.  Meola had a sneaky good season but it should be noted he was not promoted out of A ball like other 2026 college draftees.

ACL: 

Anthony Marquez:  DOB:  9/23/2006.  B-R, T-R.  5' 10", 164 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2028.

2026(ACL):  .243/.352/.355, 7 2B, 3 3B, 2 HR, 11 SB, 13.1 BB%, 21.6 K%, 199 PA.

Brodey Acres: DOB: 6/2/2004.  B-R, T-R.  5' 11", 185 lbs.  

2026(College):  .385/.471/.690, 21 2B, 3 3B, 10 HR, 11 SB, 13.6 BB%, 10.4 K%, 221 PA.  

2026(Development):  .324/.381/.505, 7 2B, 2 3B, 3 HR, 14 SB, 8.7 BB%, 18.1 K%, 127 PA.

Marquez is overshadowed by the top tier shortstop prospects in the system.  Acres was signed as an undrafted free agent late in the season and did not appear in any affiliated games.

DSL:  

Joniel Hernandez:  DOB:  3/6/2009.  B-R, T-R.  6' 1", 180 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2030.

2026(DSL):  .321/.439/.539, 17 2B, 2 3B, 7 HR, 10 SB, 16.8 BB%, 15.5 K%, 238 PA.

With almost all the Giants bonus money for this cycle going into Luis Hernandez, the DSL did not have too many interesting prospect until Joniel Hernandez arrived after the trade deadline from the Padres organization.  Very interesting prospect whose ceiling may be as high as anyone in the organization.

Giants Organizational Depth Charts: Third Base

Assuming Matt Chapman comes back healthy next season, he's the Giants third baseman.  Everybody else is depth or a prospect for the longer term future.

MLB:

Matt Chapman:  DOB:  4/28/1993.  B-R, T-R.  6' 1", 220 lbs.  Under Contract through 2030.

2026(MLB):  .235/.324/.368, 18 2B, 3B, 7 HR, 10.5 BB%, 23.0 K%, 352 PA. 

Casey Schmitt:  DOB:  3/1/1999.  B-R, T-R.  6' 0", 215 lbs.  1 Option, Arb Eligible 2027, Free Agent 2030.

2026(MLB):  .271/.301/.483, 21 HR, 9 SB, 2.7 BB%, 19.8 K%, 409 PA.

Shay Whitcomb:  DOB: 9/28/1998.  B-R, T-R.  6' 0", 202 lbs.  1 Option.  .085 Service Time.

2026(MLB- 2 teams):  .207/.233/.336, 4 HR, 2 SB, 3.3 BB%, 28.7 K%, 122 PA.

Brett Harris:  DOB:  6/24/1998.  B-R, T-R.  6' 2", 208 lbs.  0 Options, .105 Service Time.

2026(MLB- 3 teams):  .136/.240/.182, 5.9 BB%, 31.4 K%, 51 PA.

If Chapman is healthy, he's the everyday third baseman and Schmitt will probably either be the leftfielder or traded for pitching.  If Schmitt is the LF, and Chapman gets hurt again, Schmitt can easily slide to 3B as organizational depth is better in the OF.  It's hard to see either Whitcomb or Harris survive the 40-man roster purge leading up to the Rule 5 Draft.  Christian Koss can play 3B in a pinch but generally need more bat at the position.

AAA:

Parks Harber:  DOB:  9/25/2001.  B-R, T-R.  6' 3", 217 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2027.

2026(AA):  .284/.369/.510, 12 HR, 2 SB, 11.7 BB%, 24.5 K%, 298 PA.

2026(AAA):  .256/.348/.391, 6 HR, 3 SB, 11.6 BB%, 23.6 K%, 250 PA.

Harber's production fell off over the last month.  Does not need to be added to 40-man roster and can start next season in AAA.  Hopefully ready to come up by midseason if a need arises.

AA: 

Sabin Ceballos:  DOB:  8/17/2002.  B-R, T- R.  6' 2", 236 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible.

2026(AA):  .227/.356/.398, 18 HR, 11 SB, 14.3 BB%, 17.9 K%, 504 PA.

Development seems to have stalled.  Too many long slumps.

A+:

Walker Martin:  DOB:  2/20/2004.  B-L, T-R.  6' 3", 215 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible.

2026(A+):  .234/.353/.384, 18 HR, 20 SB, 10.7 BB%, 33.9 K%, 449 PA.

Martin's development has been painfully slow.  That strikeout rate is not what you want to see in A+ ball.

A:  

Luis Hernandez:  DOB:  12/13/2008.  B-R, T-R.  5' 10", 172 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2030.

2026(ACL):  .298/.382/.535, 6 HR, 6 SB, 11.0 BB%, 16.7 K%, 228 PA.

2026(A):  .231/.276/.319, 2 HR, 6.2 BB%, 29.6 K%, 98 PA.

Dario Reynoso:  DOB:  3/22/2005.  B-R, T-R.  5' 10", 183 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2027.

2026(A):  .274/.392/.483, 27 2B, 4 3B, 15 HR, 21 SB, 15.4 BB%, 33.3 K%, 462 PA.

Drew Smith:  DOB:  6/17/2003.  B- R, T-R.  6' 2", 201 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2029.

2026(College):  .342/.425/.622, 16 HR, 5 SB, 11.0 BB%, 25.0 K%, 272 PA.

2026(A):  .333/.333/.622, HR, 11.0 BB%, 25.0 K%, 12 PA.

I'm listing Hernandez on the 3B depth chart because that's where he played when he and Josuar Gonzalez were on the field together.  I saw him make a big league throw from way behind the 3B bag.  Reynoso is deceptively big, wiry strong and plays hard.  High K rate is holding him back.  Drew Smith is an interesting draft prospect.  Will likely be the starting 3B for San Jose Giants next season with Luis Hernandez starting the season at SS.

Giants Organizational Dept Charts: Second Base

Second base is one of the more interesting positions for the Giants as they start the offseason without a true incumbent although there is no shortage of candidates on the current 40-man roster.  Let's break it down:

MLB:  

Marcelo Mayer:  DOB:  12/12/2002.  B-L, T-R.  6' 3", 188 lbs.  3 Options, Arb Eligible 2029, Free Agent 2032.

2026(AAA):  .353/.421/.588, HR, 10.5 BB%, 47.4%, 19 PA.

2026(MLB-2 teams):  .209/.275/.295, 3 HR, 3 SB, 7.3 BB%, 20.8 K%, 245 PA.

Jonah Cox:  DOB:  8/4/2001.  B-R, T-R.  6' 2", 204 lbs.  3 Options.  Arb Eligible 2029.  Free Agent 2032.

2026(AA):  .400/.453/.644, 11 2B, 5 3B, 6 HR, 27 SB, 8.7 BB%, 16.9 K%, 183 PA.

2026(AAA):  .468/.519/.660, 4 2B, 3B, HR, 7 SB, 9.6 BB%, 17.3 K%, 52 PA.

2026(MLB):  .252/.298/.384, 4 2B, 2 3B, 4 HR, 16 SB, 5.9 BB%, 38.5 K%, 169 PA.

Casey Schmitt:  DOB:  3/1/1999.  B-R, T-R.  6' 0", 215 lbs.  1 Option.  Arb Eligible 2027, Free Agent 2030.

2026 MLB:  .271/.301/.483, 17 2B, 3B, 21 HR, 9 SB, 2.7 BB%, 19.8 K%, 409 PA.

Osleivis Basabe:  DOB:  9/13/2000.  B-R, T-R.  5' 11", 197 lbs.  1 Option.  Arb Eligible ?, Free Agent ?

2026(AAA):  .268/.344/388, 5 HR, 12 SB, 9.6 BB%, 10.9 K%, 311 PA.

2026(MLB):  .202/.268/.341, 5 HR, 2 SB, 6.3 BB%, 20.2 K%, 143 PA.

Christian Koss:  DOB:  1/27/1998.  B-R, T-R.  6' 1", 185 lbs. 

2026(MLB):  .217/.257/.305, 6 2B, 4 HR, 5 SB, 4.1 BB%, 26.7 K%, 221 PA.

Nate Furman:  DOB:  7/23/2001.  B-L, T-R.  5' 8", 173 lbs.  

2026(AAA):  .293/.377/.414, 25 2B, 3B, 7 HR, 19 SB, 11.1 BB%, 11.8 K%, 468 PA

2026(MLB):  .125/.243/.125, 12.8 BB%, 25.6 K%, 39 PA.

Each of these 6 players has something going for them but there is probably not room on the 40-man roster for all 6.  Nate Furman will almost certainly be DFA'd when 40-man rosters are set for the Rule 5 Draft.  Basabe is on the bubble.  Jonah Cox is primarily an outfielder but showed surprising agility around the keystone and game-changing speed in a late-season audition.  Christian Koss is probably the best defensive shortstop so that gives him added defensive flexibility.  Second base is one of two positions where Casey Schmitt could play in a full time role but interestingly he is listed as an outfielder.  What struck me in Buster Posey's end-of-season interview with Alex Pavlovic if how convinced he seems that Marcelo Mayer is a true post-hype sleeper and a potential star.  It sure sounded to me and I think to  Alex and Cole Kuiper that the starting 2B job is his to lose in spring training.  

AAA:  

Diego Velasquez:  DOB:  10/1/203.  B-S, T-R.  6' 0", 208 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible

2026(AA):  .295/.384/.406, 19 2B, 4 HR, 21 SB, 11.1 BB%, 16.5 K%, 334 PA.

2026(AAA):  .283/.381/.400, 12 2B, 3B, SB, 12.0 BB%, 19.7 K%, 142 PA.

Velasquez seems like the forgotten prospect.  I could see a savvy GM grabbing him in the Rule 5 Draft.

AA:  

Dayson Croes:  DOB:  10/8/1999.  B-L, T-R.  5' 10", 199 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2028.

2026(AA):  .277/.336/.371, 14 2B, 3 3B, 2 HR, 6 SB, 6.8 BB%, 12.4 K%, 307 PA.

2026(AAA):  .280/.341/.387, 5 2B, HR, 2 SB, 5.7 BB%, 10.3 K%, 87 PA.

Kaeden Kent:  DOB:  8/29/2003.  B-L, T-R.  6' 2", 200 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2028.

2026(A+- 2 teams):  .298/.350/.440, 24 2B, 2 3B, 8 HR, 24 SB, 7.5 BB%, 16.0 K%, 400 PA.

Croes is a hit machine but not much power.  Gotta think Kaeden Kent is going to get every chance to advance in the organization.  He's tearing it up in early Arizona Fall League competition.

A+:  

Isaiah Barkett:  DOB:  11/17/2003.  B-R, T-R.  5' 10", 191 lbs. Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2028.

2026(A):  .331/.411/.474, 23 2B, 2 3B, 5 HR, 18 SB, 11.4 K%, 8.2 BB%, 341 PA

2026(A+):  .297/.381/.405, 2B, HR, SB, 9.5 BB%, 9.5 K%, 42 PA.

Showed tremendous bat control and contact skills with limited power over two levels.  

A:  

Lorenzo Meola:  DOB:  12/17/2003.  B-R, T-R.  5' 11", 180 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2028.

2026(A):  .273/.314/.470, 40 2B, 5 3B, 15 HR, 9.5 BB%, 24.3 K%, 549 PA.

Luke Nixon:  DOB:  10/1/2004.  B-L, T-R.  5' 10", 165 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2029.

2026(College):  .367/.452, 595, 16 2B, 3 3B, 9 HR, 11 SB, 12.1 BB%, 14.0 K%, 257 PA.

2026(A):  .213/.315/.277, 3 2B, 2 SB, 13.0 BB%, 20.4 K%, 54 PA.

We've talked about how Meola's bat improved over the course of the season.  He should move up to A+ with Luke "Son of Trot" Nixon starting next season in San Jose.

ACL:

Yulian Barreto:  DOB:  9/20/2007.  B-R, T-R.  5' 10", 201 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2029.

2026(ACL):  .242/.331/.329, 5 2B, 3B, 2 HR, 5 SB, 8.1 BB%, 25.4 K%, 173 PA.

Signed in the same international class as Josuar Gonzalez.  Will probably start next season back in the ACL.

Giants Organizational Depth Charts: First Base

Barring injury, the Giants depth chart at both first base and designated hitter is set in stone.  Rafael Devers and Bryce Eldridge, and they are set for years to come so prospective first basemen coming along in the farm system are likely auditioning to be included in future trades.  

MLB:  

Rafael Devers:  DOB:  10/24/1996.  B-L, T-R.  6' 0", 235 lbs.  Under Contract through 2033.

2026(MLB):   .258/.340/.525, 36 2B, 37 HR, 10.9 BB%, 25.4 K%, 633 PA.  

Bryce Eldridge:  DOB:  10/20/2004.  B-L, T-R.  6' 7", 251 lbs.  Arbitration Eligible 2029, Free Agent 2033.

2026(AAA):  .333/.445/.518, 5 HR, 14.6 BB%, 29.9 K%, 137 PA

2026(MLB):  .269/.364/.461, 23 2B, 17 HR, 13.2 BB%, 26.6 K%, 448 PA.

The Giants don't have to worry about 1B/DH until at least 2033.  The only way it would be more perfect is if one of Devers/Eldridge batted RH.  There is also a risk of Devers production falling off in the later years of his contract.  Casey Schmitt, Jesus Rodriguez or Victor Bericoto could play the position in a pinch.

AAA:  

Charlie Szykowny:  DOB:  6/30/2000.  B-L, T-R.  6' 4", 236 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible.

2026(AA):  .252/.317/.417, 14 HR, 11 SB, 7.5 BB%, 20.5 K%, 482 PA.

2026(AAA):  .243/.264/.371, HR, 1.4 BB%, 13.9 K%, 72 PA.

If I remember right Szykowny was drafted as a shortstop.  Now mostly a 1B.  Power showed up at A+ level in 2025.  Struggled in a small sample after promotion to AAA.  

AA:  

Sabin Ceballos:  DOB:  8/17/2002.  B-R, T-R.  6' 2", 236 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible.

2026(AA):  .227/.356/.398, 18 HR, 11 SB, 14.3 BB%, 17.9 K%, 504 PA.

Zander Darby:  DOB:  11/26/2002.  B-L, T-R.  6' 2", 218 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2027.

2026(A+):  .278/.343/.486, 18 HR, 10 SB, 8.3 BB%, 31.3 K%, 432 PA.

2026(AA):  .250/.300/.250, 20.0 BB%, 40.0 K%, 30 PA.

Ceballos is a classic 3-true outcomes guy who is prone to extended slumps.  Hard to see a future in the organization.  Darby was drafted as a SS but is now more of a 1B.  Good hitter who will be blocked at 1B/DH.

A+:

Jakob Christian:  DOB:  9/17/2002.  B-R, T-R.  6' 5", 232 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2027.

A+:  .253/.371/.484, 9 HR, 12.9 BB%, 32.6 K%, 224 PA.  

Hayden Jatczak:  DOB:  8/18/2001.  B-R, T-R.  6' 4", 237 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2028.

2026(A):  .295/.395/.500, 9 HR, 6 SB, 14.2 BB%, 17.7 K%, 310 PA.

2026(A+):  .284/.364/.372, 3 HR, 3 SB, 13.0 BB%, 19.5 K%, 154 PA.

Robert Hipwell:  DOB:  3/6/2003.  B-L, T-R.  6' 3", 223 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2027.

2026(A+):  .210/.352/.395, 8 HR, 2 SB, 16.3 BB%, 38.1 K%, 252 PA.

Jatczak makes more contact than Christian or Hipwell and will probably go the farthest but may end up as more of a 4-A guy.

A:  

Jeremiah Jenkins:  DOB:  5/5/2003.  B-L, T-L.  6' 3", 261 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2027.

2026(A):  .226/.356/.439, 17 HR, 15.1 BB%, 29.1 K%, 464 PA.  

Huge.  3-true outcomes.  Limited ceiling.

ACL:

Evan Estevez:  DOB:  8/14/2007.  B-R, T-R.  6' 2", 213 lbs. Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2028.

2026(ACL):  .239/.345/.410, 7 HR, 3 SB, 13.1 BB%, 38.0 K%, 221 PA.

Carlos Concepcion:  DOB:  1/6/2006.  B-R, T-R.  6' 1", 189 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2027.

2026(ACL):  .238/.315/.364, 4 HR, 7.7 BB%, 38.5 K%, 169 PA.

Both these guys have a long way to go. Not a great sign that both are mostly playing 1B.

Thoughts on the Postseason

A couple of thoughts on the postseason so far.  To my eye postseason teams have two common denominators:  1.  They have multiple pitchers who throw 100+ MPH.  2.  They have multiple lefty relievers.   That's all.

Giants Organizational Depth Charts: Catcher

 One of the oddest events of a season full of odd events was Patrick Bailey's trade to the Cleveland Guardians on May 9 for Matt Wilkinson LHP.  It's still not clear why Buster Posey made that trade, but it came after an odd at bat in which a Giants pitcher threw something like 9 straight sliders and subsequent rumors of friction between the coaches and Bailey over calling pitches from the bench.  Even odder was word after the trade that Giants pitchers were now allowed to call games themselves and performances noticeably improved.  Whatever the case, the Giants catching depth chart went from having a clear #1 to catcher competition which was complicated by injuries to Daniel Susac and Jesus Rodriguez.  

MLB:

Daniel Susac:  DOB:  5/14/2001.  B-R, T-R.  6' 5", 210 lbs.  3 Options, Arb Eligible 2029, Free Agent 3032.

2026(AAA):  .464/.545/.821, 2B, 3 HR, 2 SB, 9.1 BB%, 6.1 K%, 33 PA.

2026(MLB):  .243/.289/.375, 8 2B, 3B, 3 HR, 2 SB, 5.0 BB%, 22.3 K%, 161 PA.

Drew Cavanaugh:  DOB:  1/27/2002.  B-L, T-R.  6' 0", 219 lbs.  3 Options, Arb Eligible 2030, Free Agent 2033.

2026(AA):  .279/.456/.515, 7 2B, 3 HR, 3 SB, 18.9 BB%, 23.3 K%, 90 PA.

2026(AAA):  .311/.449/.550, 9 2B, 6 HR, 13.1 BB%, 24.8 K%, 137 PA.

2026(MLB):  .229/.315/.292, 4 2B, 3B, HR, SB, 10.8 BB%, 30.1 K%, 166 PA.

Jesus Rodriguez:  DOB:  4/23/2002, B-R, T-R.  5' 10", 201 lbs.  1 Option, Arb Eligible 2030, Free Agent 2033.  

2026(AAA):  .268/.347/.397, 10 2B, 5 HR, 7 SB, 10.7 BB%, 11.6 K%, 225 PA.

2026(MLB:  .235/.316/.412, 3 2B, 2 HR, SB, 8.6 BB%, 13.8 K%, 58 PA.

 

Andrew Knizner and Zach Morgan are also currently on the 40-man MLB roster.  Both will likely be dropped before the deadline to set the roster before the Rule 5 Draft.  It appears Susac, Cavanaugh and Rodriguez will compete for 2 of 3 catcher spots on the 2027 Opening Day roster.  They all have some positional flexibility so it would not be shocking to see all 3 make it.  All things being equal, Cavanaugh will have the edge for playing time due to batting left handed.

AAA:  

Adrian Sugastey:  DOB:  10/23/2002.  B-R, T-R.  6' 0", 213 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible.

2026(ACL):  .355/.429/.484, HR, 8.6 BB%, 2.9 K%, 35 PA.

2026(AA):  .275/.323/.392, 2 HR, 2 SB, 5.9 BB%, 11.9 K%, 135 PA.

2026(AAA):  .289/.355/.422, 3 HR, 8.4 BB%, 9.5 K%, 95 PA.

Fernando Gonzalez:  DOB:  12/2/2001.  B-R, T-R.  5' 10", 205 lbs. Rule 5 Eligible Dec 2027.

2026(ACL):  .364/.563/.818, HR, 25.0 BB%, 6.3 K%, 16 PA.

2026(A):  .232/.357/.304, 2 HR, SB, 11.9 BB%, 8.3 K%, 168 PA.

2026(AAA):  .280/.438/.480, HR, 17.6 BB%, 32.4 K%, 34 PA.

I could see a team looking for a back up catcher on the cheap grabbing Sugastey in the Rule 5 Draft.  Giants don't have enough room on the 40-man roster to protect him.  If he is not drafted, he should start the season in AAA and serve as depth for the MLB roster. Gonzalez is listed on the AAA roster but was a late organizational fill-in.  He may start next season in A+.

AA:  

Jancel Villaroel:  DOB:  1/17/2005.  B-R, T-R.  5' 8", 202 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible.

2026(A+):  .305/.376/.480, 7 HR, 5.6 BB%, 18.2 K%, 198 PA.

2026(AA):  .200/.281/.308, 2 HR, 3 SB, 8.7 BB%, 18.8 K%, 138 PA.

Onil Perez:  DOB:  9/10/2002.  B-R, T-R.  5' 11", 226 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible

2026(A+):  .256/.315/.388, 3 HR, 3 SB, 7.0 BB%, 15.4 K%, 143 PA.

2026(AA):  .207/.294/.276, 8.8 BB%, 14.7 K%, 34 PA.

Ty Hanchey:  DOB:  12/19/1999.  B-L, T-R.  5' 9", 195 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible.

2026(A+):  .289/341/.526, 2 HR, 4.9 BB%, 31.7 K%, 41 PA.

2026(AA):  .246/.335/.374, 4 HR, 10.5 BB%, 29.2 K%, 209 PA.

Villarroel was acquired from the Astros for Kai-Wei Teng in the offseason.  He put up strong numbers in A+ before struggling at AA.  Ty Hanchey was signed as an undrafted free agent in 2023.  Held his own at AA and lefty batting catchers should get extra leash.  Onil Perez seems to have hit his ceiling at AA.  

A+:

Daniel Rogers:  DOB:  12/7/2001.  B-L, T-R.  6' 3", 225 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2028.

2026(A):  .275/.393/.549, 4 HR, 13.1 BB%, 24.6 K%, 61 PA.

2026(A+):  .233/.333/.345, 2 HR, 13.0 BB%, 33.33 K%, 138 PA.

Charlie Muniz:  DOB:  10/25/2001.  B-R, T-R.  6' 2", 220 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2029.

2026(Ind): .361/.470/.656, 27 HR, 14.7 BB%, 17.3 K%, 428 PA.

2026(A+):  .067/.176/.267, HR, 11.8 BB%, 47.1 K%, 17 PA.

A couple of undrafted free agents from the college class of 2025 with intriguing bats.  

A:  

Rod Barajas Jr.:  DOB:  7/12/2004.  B-L, T-R.  6' 3", 225 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2028.

2026(A):  .265/.346/.462, 13 HR, 9.4 BB%, 21.4 K%, 384 PA.

Scott Gell:  DOB:  10/23/2004.  B-R, T-R.  6' 1", 201 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2029.

2026(College):  .303/.377/.447, 3 HR, 7.7 BB%, 10.9 K%, 156 PA.

2026(Smr):  .242/.333/.288, 2B, 3B, 10.7 BB%, 38.7 K%, 75 PA.

2026(A):  .000/.111/.000, 11.1 BB%, 22.2 K%, 9 PA.

Rod Barajas Jr. is probably the best catching prospect in the system.  Big potential in the lefty bat.  Gell was signed as an undrafted free agent after the draft.  

ACL:

Santiago Camacho:  DOB:  1/27/2007.  B-S, T-R.  5' 10", 200 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2028.

2026(ACL):  .258/.340/.438, 5 2B, 3B, 3 HR, 11.7 BB%, 20.4 K%, 103 PA.

Yohendry Sanchez:  DOB:  11/9/2006.  B-R, T-R.  6' 0", 229 lbs.  Rule 5 Eligible Dec. 2028.

2026(ACL):  .311/.468/.393, 5 2B, 3 SB, 21.5 BB%, 8.9 K%, 79 PA.  

Switch-hitting catchers are rare.  Fun Fact:  Yohendry Sanchez got a bigger signing bonus than Jhonny Level.  

ACL Giants 2026 Season Review

 The ACL Giants finished with a record of 34-26 good for 2'nd place in the ACL East and tied for 5'th overall in the league.  That did not get them into the ACL postseason.  The ACL roster started out with mostly DSL graduates.  A few players drafted in 2026 were worked in as the season wound down.  Most of the drafted players did not accumulate enough appearances to qualify as stat leaders.  

Teams Stats:  

Batting:

BA:  .266(6)

OBP:  .369(11)

SLG%:  .418(6)

Hits:  485(5)

Doubles: 97(7)

Triples:  19(10)

HR:  47(9)

Runs:  346(9)

Walks:  257(12)

Strikeouts: 532(5)

SB:  78(9)

My Take:  Again we see the pattern of high contact, low walks and low-middling power which comes up a bit short on runs.  

Pitching: 

ERA: 4.90(2)

HR(41(3)

Walks:  236(2)

Strikeouts:  564(8)

WHIP:  1.47(2)

GO/AO:  1.21(5)

Saves:  17(2)

Overall a good pitching performance in a pretty extreme hitter's league.

Individual Stats:

Batting(100+ AB for rate stats):

BA:  Luis Hernandez- .298, Anthony Marquez- 243, Yulian Barreto- .242.

OBP:  Luis Hernandez- .382, Luis Frias- .362, Anthony Marquez- .352.

SLG%:  Luis Hernandez- .535, Evan Estevez- .410, Carlos Concepcion- .364.

Hits:  Luis Hernandez- 59, Evan Estevez- 45, Anthony Marquez- 41.

Doubles:  Luis Hernandez- 19, Oliver Tejada- 9, Carlos Concepcion/Josuar Gonzalez/Anthony Marquez- 7.

Triples:  Luis Hernandez- 5, Evan Estevez- 3, Anthony Marquez- 3

HR: Evan Estevez- 7, Luis Hernandez- 6, Rayner Arias/Carlos Concepcion- 4

Runs:  Evan Estevez- 36, Luis Hernandez- 35, Luis Frias- 33

RBI:  Luis Hernandez- 45, Evan Estevez- 27, Luis Frias- 26

SB: Luis Frias- 16, Anthony Marquez- 11, Josuar Gonzalez- 8.

My Take:  Josuar Gonzalez came in just short of 100 AB at 99 but had a dominant slash line of .343/.451/.515.  Top Prospect in the system with the graduation of Bryce Eldridge.  Luis Hernandez was the rare 17 yo interrnational prospect to make his pro debut in the ACLand also dominated.

Pitching(20+ IP for rate stats):

Wins:  Jose G. Gonzalez- 6, Carlos De La Rosa- 4, Brayan Narvaez- 4

ERA:  Samir Chires- 2.08, Jose T. Perez- 4.09, Leandro Rodriguez- 4.18

Innings:  Leandro Rodriguez- 47.1, Carlos De La Rosa- 44, Luke Mensik- 40.1

Strikeouts:  Leandro Rodriquez- 58, Melvin Pineda- 54, Carlos De La Rosa/Marlon Franco- 47.

WHIP:  Leandro Rodriguez- 1.06, Brayan Narvaez- 1.19, Samir Chires- 1.19

GO/AO:  Jose G. Gonzalez- 2.07, Carlos De La Rosa- 1.68, Marlon Franco- 1.67, Luke Mensik- 1.66.

Hard to make too much of any of this. I saw Leandro Rodriguez pitch in the Cal League Championship Series.  He's a big lefty with a sidearm delivery, max velocity I saw was 92 MPH.  I think can be a lefty reliever at the MLB level.

A San Jose Giants 2026 Season Review

 The San Jose Giants finished in first place in the California League North Division in both the first and second halves of the season.  They defeated the Stockton Ports in the division series but then lost to the Lake Elsinore Storm in the championship series.  

Team Stats:

Batting:  

BA:  .276(2)

OBP:  .367(3)

SLG%:  .456(2)

Hits:  1269(2)

Doubles:  .279(1)

Triples:  48(2)

HR:  151(2)

Runs(897(1)

Walks:  587(5)

Strikeouts:  1225(3)

SB:  191(4)

My Take:  Strong batting stats across the board but again their lowest ranking was in walks.

Pitching:

ERA:  4.79(1)

Hits:  1087(1)

HR:  130(4)

Walks:  534(2)

Strikeouts:  1273(5)

GO/AO:  0.93(8)

My Take:  I thought the SJ Giants had a terrible year for pitching so was surprised to find they had the lowest ERA in the Cal League and the only one under 5.00.  Hard to make too much out of the rest of the stats.  

Individual Stats:

Batting(200+ AB for rate stats):

BA:  Isaiah Barkett- .331, Hayden Jatczak- .295, Damian Bravo- .291.

OBP:  Isaiah Barkett- .411, Hayden Jatczak- .395, Dario Reynoso- .392

SLG%:  Damian Bravo- .509, Hayden Jatczak- .500, Cam Maldonado- .484.

Hits:  Lorenzo Meola- 128, Andy Polanco- 105, Dario Reynoso- 105

Doubles:  Lorenzo Meola- 40, Dario Reynoso- 27, Junior Barajas/Jeremiah Jenkins- 24.

Triples:  Andy Polanco- 9, Josuar Gonzalez- 6, Lorenzo Meola- 5

Home Runs:  Jeremiah Jenkins- 17, Lorenzo Meola- 15, Dario Reynoso- 15

Runs:  Lorenzo Meola- 93, Dario Reynoso- 81, Jeremiah Jenkins- 63.

RBI:  Lorenzo Meola- 78, Dario Reynoso- 69, Jeremiah Jenkins- 62.

Steals:  Andy Polanco- 38, Dario Reynoso- 21, Isaiah Barkett- 18.

My Take:  The biggest stories of the SJ season were from players who did not accumulate enough AB's to be stat leaders, Jhonny Level who batted .325 in 191 AB and performed about as well after moving up to A+.  Josuar Gonzalez batted .357 after moving up from the ACL and 17 yo Luis Hernandez had some moments but ended up batting .231 in 91 AB.  I could see Jhonny Level moving up to AA next season with Gonzalez in A+ and Hernandez, still a young 18 yo, back in San Jose.  Lorenzo Meola started the season very slow but batted .324 in July and .343 in August.  17'th round draft pick Tanner Mally batted .383 in in 81 AB in his pro debut.  Other draftees to see playing time were Luke Nixon and Peyton Bonds.

Pitching(50+ IP for rate stats):

Wins:  Jordan Gottesman- 7, Evan Gray- 7, Dylan Carter/Bradyon Risley- 6

Innings:  Jordan Gottesman- 102.1, Keyner Martinez- 93.2, Ricardo Estrada- 91.2

ERA:  Jordan Gottesman- 3.96, Ricardo Estrada- 4.12, Keyner Martinez- 4.61.

Strikeouts:  Keyner Martinez- 134, Jordan Gottesman- 111, Ricardo Estrada- 85.

Walks:  Ricardo Estrada- 52, Fernando Vasquez- 49, Keyner Martinez- 47.

My Take:  I saw Keyner Martinez pitch 3 times.  In all 3 games he looked great until he had to pitch out of the stretch then things fell apart quickly.  Jordan Gottesman has some room to fill out and could gain velocity with maturity.  Argenis Cayama had a terrific start in the championship series on his 20'th birthday 5 no-hit innings with 7 K's.  He is probably the best pitching prospect for this year's SJ Giants team.

A+ Eugene Emeralds 2026 Season Review

The Ems dominated the NWL regular season winning both halves although they squeaked past Vancouver Canadians by just 0.5 games in the second half.  They then lost the Championship series 2 games to 0.  

Team Stats:

Batting:

BA:  .270(1)

OBP:  .351(3)

SLG%:  .449(2)

Hits:  1199(1)

Doubles:  272(1)

Triples:  16(6)

HR:  164(2)

BB:  517(6)

Strikeouts:  1220(3)

SB:  45(4)

Runs:  771(2)

RBI:  716(2)

My Take:  Another organizational team finished dead last in walks.  In this case it did not seem to harm their run production as they finished 2'nd in Runs.  

Pitching:

ERA:  4.53(1)

Strikeouts:  1248(2)

Walks:  602(4)

WHIP:  1.42(2)

GO/AO:  1.11(4)

Saves:  35(1)

My Take:  Again a little high on the walks but otherwise good numbers in a hitter-friendly environment.

Individual Stats:

Batting(200+ AB for Rate Stats):

BA:  Jhonny Level- .302, Trevor Cohen- .297, Dakota Jordan- .290.

OBP:  Trevor Cohen- .387, Carlos Gutierrez- .385, Jhonny Level- .363.

SLG%:  Dakota Jordan CF- .533, Lisbel Diaz- .531, Zander Darby- .486.

Hits:  Zander Darby- 108, Trevor Cohen- 97, Lisbel Diaz- 97.

Doubles:  Gavin Kilen- 27, Trevor Cohen- 26, Zander Darby/Jhonny Level- 25.

Triples:  Carlos Gutierrez- 3, Trevor Cohen/Lisbel Diaz/Jancel Villaroel- 2

HR:  Lisbel Diaz- 21, Zander Darby/Dakota Jordan/Walker Martin- 18.

Walks:  Carlos Gutierrez- 54, Trevor Cohen/Walker Martin- 48.

SB:  Trevor Cohen- 26, Carlos Gutierrez- 26, Walker Martin- 20.

My Take:  Good season for Ems hitters both as a team and as individuals.  Jhonny Level more than holding his own after a midseason promotion at age 19 is huge.  Gavin Kilen was a doubles machine and had sneaky solid numbers before a promotion and he continued to put up similar numbers in AA.  Dakota Jordan's combination of batting for both average and power is encouraging.  A late season injury kept him from testing himself at AA.  Lisbel Diaz showed impressive power and did not turn 21 until 7/19.  He seems like an underrated prospect.  

Pitching(50+ IP for Rate Stats):

Wins:  Jacob Bresnahan- 7, Cade Vernon- 7, Yunior Marte/Niko Mazza/Esmerlin Vinicio- 6

Innings:  Hunter Dryden- 106.2, Luis De La Torre- 100.2, Jacob Bresnahan- 98.2

ERA- Jacob Bresnahan- 2.92, Esmerlin Vinicio- 3.14, Niko Mazza- 4.15.

Strikeouts:  Luis De La Torre- 126, Jacob Bresnahan- 118, Hunter Dryden- 114.

Walks:  Luis De La Torre- 82, Niko Mazza- 55, Hunter Dryden- 51

WHIP:  Jacob Bresnahan- 1.04, Tyler Switalski- 1.26, Esmerlin Vinicio- 1.28.

GO/AO:  Cade Vernon- 1.98, Esmerlin Vinicio- 1.88, Niko Mazza- 1.16

Saves:  Ryan Slater- 8, Liam Simon- 7, Esmerlin Vinicio- 5

My Take:  Bresnahan is probably the top prospect although Yunior Marte made it all the way to the majors.  Bresnahan struggled some after a promotion to AA.  Too many walks continue to be a problem for too many pitching prospects.

AA Richmond Flying Squirrels 2026 Season Review

 The AA Richmond Flying Squirrels won the Eastern League Southwest Division first half and quite handily with the best record on the EL, 43-25.  They then stumbled to 31-36 and 5'th place in the second half probably due to promotions up to AAA and up from A+.  The Squirrels had a total of 61 players appear in games over the season. They then lost the EL Division Series 2 games to 0.  

Team Stats: 

Batting:

BA:  .264(1)

OBP:  .345(11)

SLG%:  .411(7)

Hits:  1189(3)

Doubles:  .235(5)

Triples:  30(3)

HR:  122(12)

Walks:  503(10)

Strikeouts:  1079(1-fewest)

SB:  204(4)

Runs:  707(6)

My Take:  We again see the Buster Effect:  High contact, low walks, low power.  Mid-pack in run production.  

Pitching:  

ERA:  5.10(10)

Shut Outs:  11(1)

Home Runs:  160(9)

Walks(12- Most)

Strikeouts:  1250(6)

GO/AO:  0.89(11)

My Take:  The 5.10 ERA was well deserved as the pitching gave up the most walks in the league, did not keep the ball on the ground and gave up a lot of home runs.

Individual Stats:

Batting(200+ AB for Rate Stats):

BA:  Trevor Cohen- .300, Diego Velasquez- .295, Parks Harber- .284.

OBP:  Diego Velasquez- .384, Parks Harber- .369, Sabin Ceballos- .356.

SLG%:  Bo Davidson- .521, Parks Harber- .510, Charlie Szykowny- .417.

Hits:  Charlie Szykowny 1B- 109, Sabin Ceballos- 94, Maui Ahuna- 89.

Doubles:  Charlie Szykowny- 21, Parks Harber- 20, Diego Velasquez 2B- 19.

Triples:  Jonah Cox RF- 5, Charlie Szykowny- 4, Maui Ahuna/Dayson Croes/Gavin Kilen- 3

Home Runs:  Bo Davidson 19, Sabin Ceballos- 18, Charlie Szykowny- 14.

Runs:  Sabin Ceballos- 69, Maui Ahuna- 63, Charlie Szykowny- 61.

RBI:  Sabin Ceballos- 57, Bo Davidson- 53, Charlie Szykowny- 53.

Steals:  Maui Ahuna- 31, Jonah Cox- 27, Diego Velasquez- 21.

My Take:  Despite counting stats near the top of several categories, Maui Ahuna and Sabin Ceballos had BA's in the .220's.  Ceballos is a true 3-true outcomes guy but does that play at higher levels?  Bo Davidson is the top prospect here.  Gavin Kilen had a sneaky good season with a slash line of .297/.343/.469 in 128 AB after putting up a similar line in A+ ball.

Pitching(50+ IP for Rate Stats):

Wins:  Tyler Vogel- 9, Jack Choate- 6, 4 pitchers- 5

ERA- Joe Whitman- 3.22, Tyler Vogel- 3.25, Yunior Marte- 3.92.

Saves:  Tyler Vogel- 16, Cristian Alvarado- 5, Mitch White- 5.

Strikeouts:  Greg Farone- 107, Trystan Vrieling- 98, Cesar Perdomo- 89.

WHIP:  Joe Whitman- .97, Cesar Perdomo- 1.11, Shane Rademacher- 1.11.

GO/AO:  Manuel Mercedes- 1.34, Tyler Vogel- 1.31, Joe Whitman- 1.19.

My Take:  Not a super-inspiring group.  Yunior Marte and Cesar Perdomo made it to the Giants and did not embarrass themselves.  Joe Whitman should be added to the 40-man roster over the winter and get a shot next season.  Tyler Vogel is on the Closer Track.  That is often not a successful path to the major leagues.

AAA Sacramento River Cats 2026 Season Review

 The mission of most team's AAA teams is generally 2-fold:  "Finishing school" for prospects and an extended bench for the MLB team.  The Sacramento River Cats fulfilled both parts and did it well as 51 players played for both teams and several of them look to have long term roles for the Giants.  The River Cats started off strong finishing second in the PCL West in the first half with a 42-30 record.  After numerous promotions to the Giants and from AA, they slipped to third place in the second half at 37-38.  Over the full season they had the second best record in the PCL West and the third best overall.  Let's break down the team stats and individual stat leaders for the season. 

Team Stats(league ranking in parentheses):

Batting:

BA:  .278(4)

OBP:  .361(5)

SLG%:  .427(8)

Runs:  822(6)

Hits:  1400(5)

Doubles:  282(5)

Triples:  25(8)

Home Runs:  138(9)

RBI:  773(6)

Walks:  591(10)

Strikeouts:  992(1-fewest). The next fewest K's was 1157 so quite a large gap.

HBP:  91(3)

Sac:  33(3)

Sac Fly:  63(1)

My Take:  We see an even more extreme stat pattern reflecting Buster's image, best in league in K's and worst in walks with lower power numbers.  

Pitching:

ERA:  4.67(3)

HR:  133(2-fewest)

Walks:  643(6)

Strikeouts:  1222(5)

Saves:  34(3)

Save Ops:  51(8).

GO/AO:  1.03(6)  

My Take:  Nothing To See Here.  Kind of middling for all stats probably reflecting the use of 24 pitchers over the season. 

Individual Stats:

Batting:  200+ AB for rate stats.

BA:  Turner Hill- .353, Scott Bandura- .318, Bo Davidson- .309.

OBP:  Turner Hill- .420, Scott Bandura- .398, Bo Davidson- .389.

SLG%:  Bo Davidson- .534, Turner Hill- .529, Scott Bandura- .492.

Hits:  Scott Bandura- 117, Nate Furman- 117, Will Brennan- 114, Turner Hill- 114.

Doubles:  Scott Bandura- 28, Nate Furman- 25, Will Brennan- 24.

Triples:  Turner Hill- 4, Scott Bandura- 3, Will Brennan- 3.

HR:  Will Brennan- 11, Scott Bandura- 10, Bo Davidson- 10

Runs:  Scott Bandura- 71, Turner Hill- 65, Nate Furman- 63

RBI:  Will Brennan- 63, Scott Bandura- 62, Turner Hill- 60.

SB:  Scott Bandura- 24, Turner Hill- 23, Nate Furman- 19.

My Take:  Mostly similar names mostly due to number of AB's.  Of the guys who logged the most AB's, Turner Hill showed the most at the MLB level.  Bo Davidson is the top prospect.  Others who were not on the team as long but impressed at the MLB level include Drew Cavanaugh, Jonah Cox and of course Bryce Eldridge.  

Pitching:  30 IP for rate stats.

Wins:  Cesar Perdomo- 7, Wilkin Ramos- 6, Carson Whisenhunt- 6.

ERA(relievers):  Ryan Walker- 2.52, Michael Fulmer- 2.98, Trent Harris- 3.12.

ERA(Starters):    Joe Whitman- 3.74, Carson Whisenhunt- 4.15, Blade Tidwell- 4.38

Saves:  Michael Fulmer- 10, Eric Cerantola- 6, Carson Seymour- 4.

K/9(relievers):  Trent Harris- 11.60, Michael Fulmer- 11.06

K/9(starters):  Carson Whisenhunt- 9.84, Blade Tidwell- 9.75, Joe Whitman- 7.36, Cesar Perdomo- 6.80.

My Take:  Again, not much in the way of takeaways.  A bit curious why Michael Fulmer never got his shot at The Churn.  Maybe the reason Joe Whitman never got a call was his low K/9 but Cesar Perdomo's was worse.  Beyond that, the cupboard was pretty much emptied out at AAA level.  There are some promising pitching prospects at lower levels, bolstered by the 2026 draft but overall organizational pitching is thinner than hitting.