The San Francisco Giants made an intriguing move in MLB free agency that sent their rivals into a frenzy. After a disappointing 2024 season, the Giants have undergone changes in their leadership and are determined to improve this offseason. Led by President of Baseball Operations Buster Posey, the team made a quiet move that could have a significant impact on Posey’s position. They signed former Angels catcher Max Stassi to a minor league contract, causing a stir in the baseball world.
Stassi, a ten-year major league veteran, spent the first six years of his career with the Houston Astros before joining the Angels midway through the 2019 season. He was the Angels’ primary catcher for his last two seasons there. However, injuries and personal issues have limited his playing time to just five rehab games over the past two years. Despite these challenges, Stassi posted an impressive 2.9 fWAR in 87 games in 2021.
The Giants are hoping to get a healthy Stassi behind the plate for their major league team in the near future. With Stassi’s experience and potential, he could compete for the role of backup catcher on the Giants roster. However, he is unlikely to replace Patrick Bailey, the 25-year-old Gold Glove winner who currently occupies the starting catcher position. Curt Casali, who played 41 games as a catcher for the Giants, is a free agent, creating an opportunity for Stassi to make his mark.
Although the Giants made this strategic move to strengthen their receiving options, they still have other areas to address. The team made a splash during the season by signing third baseman Matt Chapman to a one-year contract, which proved to be a success. Chapman’s performance attracted interest from players who now want to join the Giants. However, their own player, Blake Snell, opted out of his contract after a strong year, becoming a free agent.
Despite the Giants’ activity on the free agent market, they have yet to pursue star outfielder Juan Soto. Five teams, including their rival Dodgers, have submitted offers for Soto, but the Giants have not shown their intentions. It appears the team is focusing on smaller, strategic additions to complement their existing contracts with players like Chapman, Jung-hoo Lee, and Logan Webb.
In conclusion, the Giants’ stealth move to secure former Angels catcher Max Stassi has caused a frenzy among their rivals. With Stassi’s potential and experience, he could provide valuable depth at the Giants’ wide receiver position. As the team continues to make improvements and explore other opportunities in the free agent market, their strategic approach could lead to a successful offseason.
