3 Biggest Trade Deadline Questions for Giants
By Jared Kish
The San Francisco Giants currently sit in the bottom of the NL West, with a record of 21-27. Since last making the playoffs in 2016, the Giants have been one of the worst teams in baseball, and need to address these key questions if they hope to see any improvement to the club.
1. What Do They Do With Madison Bumgarner?
What the Giants most likely need to do is trade Bumgarner, at this juncture. He is in the final year of his contract and can bring in a hefty load of prospects who can help the Giants win down the line (though likely fewer than he would have if they'd pulled the trigger a year or two prior). Bum's no-trade list strategically features the league's contenders so that he can dictate his own destination--so where does he go?
2. Should the Giants Add Starters?
Yes, the Giants need to go out and find a reliable starter for a struggling rotation, some way or some how. Not one pitcher in the Giants rotation has a winning record, which is a key reason why the team is in the bottom of the division. The Giants need to trade Will Smith or Bumgarner for one stable young starter, at the very least. This rotation needs some form of youthful anchor.
3. What Do the Giants Do in the Outfield?
Even though San Fran made a move earlier in the year to add Kevin Pillar, the Giants outfield is very weak. Some teams have one hole to fill out here; the Giants likely have three. A slugging outfield prospect should be their next priority in getting younger.