The San Francisco Giants have made a significant signing in the form of free agent outfielder and designated hitter Jorge Soler. As per sources familiar with the negotiations, Soler has agreed to a three-year contract worth $42 million with the Giants. While the deal is still pending a successful physical, it is expected to be finalized soon.
The addition of Jorge Soler will undoubtedly strengthen the Giants' roster as they head into the upcoming season. San Francisco President of Baseball Operations, Farhan Zaidi, has been actively looking to bolster the team ahead of spring training, and Soler's signing fulfills that objective. The veteran slugger will provide Manager Bob Melvin with increased depth in the outfield, enhancing the team's offensive capabilities.
Last season, the 31-year-old Cuban native earned his first All-Star selection while playing for the Miami Marlins. In 137 games, Soler posted solid numbers, hitting .250 with an impressive 36 home runs and 75 RBIs. It's worth noting that Soler primarily served as a designated hitter (DH) during his time with the Marlins, featuring in 102 games in that role.
Soler's games played during the previous season ranked as the third-highest total throughout his ten-year Major League Baseball career, which includes stints with the Chicago Cubs, Kansas City Royals, Atlanta Braves, and the aforementioned Marlins. Notably, Soler achieved the rare feat of appearing in all 162 games for the Royals in 2019. In 2021, he participated in 149 contests split between Kansas City and Atlanta.
In addition to acquiring Soler, the Giants have also made a move to bring in infielder/outfielder Otto López from the Toronto Blue Jays in exchange for cash considerations. López had been designated for assignment by the Blue Jays before the trade. The 25-year-old López has limited major league experience, having played in nine games with 11 plate appearances over the past two seasons. However, he showcased promise at the Triple-A level, batting .258 with two home runs and 35 RBIs in 84 games for the Buffalo Bisons in 2021.
To make room for López on the roster, San Francisco designated outfielder T.J. Hopkins for assignment. This transaction reflects the Giants' commitment to making necessary adjustments to accommodate new additions and optimize their overall team composition.
With the signing of Soler and the acquisition of López, the Giants aim to position themselves as strong contenders in the highly competitive National League West. After missing out on the playoffs for the past two years, the franchise is determined to reclaim its success under new manager Bob Melvin. The Giants are coming off an exceptional 2021 campaign, where they won a franchise-record 107 games and secured the division crown.
As the new season approaches, San Francisco continues to make calculated moves to strengthen its roster and improve its playoff chances. The signing of Jorge Soler and the addition of Otto López signify the team's commitment to assembling a competitive squad capable of making a deep postseason run.
(Note: This article is based on information sourced from the Associated Press)
