The signing of left-hander Max Fried by the New York Yankees has shifted attention to right-hander Corbin Burnes. Burners, now the top remaining free-agent pitcher, stands alone in his tier, drawing interest from multiple clubs. According to MLB Network Insider Jon Morosi, the San Francisco Giants are viewed as “perhaps the frontrunner” to sign the former Cy Young Award winner. At the close of last week’s Winter Meeting’s, MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand reported that the Giants and Toronto Blue Jays are the favorites in the Burnes sweepstakes.
Giants Targeting Corbin Burnes in Free Agency
Burnes is expected to surpass Fried’s $218 million deal, with multiple sources telling Feinsand that Burnes will likely sign for at least $245 million. This would match or exceed Stephen Strasburg‘s guarantee total from five years ago. The Boston Red Sox, who acquired Garrett Crochet, considered making an offer to Burnes last week. However, they were hesitant to meet the required price. The Baltimore Orioles are also in the mix, but San Francisco and Toronto have been the most aggressive bidders, according to Feinsand.
Giants’ Rotation Needs and Burnes’ Attractiveness
The Giants are hesitant on their stable of young starters including Kyle Harrison, Hayden Birdsong, Landon Roupp and Keaton Winn. Their rotation covered the fewest innings in the National League in 2024. It warrants the need for another reliable arm like Burnes to pair with Logan Webb, Robbie Ray and Jordan Hicks. Burnes could help stabilize the pitching staff, having thrown at least 190 innings or more in each of his last three seasons.
According to Morosi, Giants’ president of baseball operations Buster Posey is driving the team’s offseason strategy. Morosi noted that Posey aims to make a significant impact in the free agent market.
Adames Signing and Burnes’ Decision
The recent signing of shortstop Willy Adames marked a crucial step in this direction. With Adames and five-time Gold Glove winner Matt Chapman locked into the left side of the infield, the Giants could become an even more possible landing spot for Burnes. Adding an ace like Burnes would give the Giants much-needed rotation stability and depth. Although Morosi emphasized that the Giants and Burnes aren’t close to a deal, the pitcher’s California roots make San Francisco an attractive option. Ultimately, Burnes’ decision will hinge on which team meets his contract demands. If the Giants meet his asking price, they could emerge as the frontrunners to sign him.
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