Snell’s Potential Return Imperative for SF Giants Future

As the San Francisco Giants embark on a crucial offseason, Buster Posey, the team’s president of baseball operations, faces a daunting task: shaping the roster for future success. With Greg Johnson‘s ownership group committed to investing in the team, Posey must make strategic decisions to bolster the Giants’ chances. One pressing priority stands out: re-signing ace left-hander Blake Snell.

Posey needs to persuade Greg Johnson to reallocate the savings from Jorge Soler‘s salary to secure Snell. Before being traded to the Atlanta Braves, the Giants committed $42 million, including a $9 million signing bonus to Soler. Fortunately, Farhan Zaidi was able to offload that contract when it still had a value of roughly $33 million. By combining Snell’s player option from his remaining contract with the money saved from Soler, the Giants would be $63 million closer to their goal.

The Giants Have $63 Million Reasons to Re-Sign Snell

Despite widespread speculation that Blake Snell is bound for free agency, his outstanding second half has given Giants fans reason for optimism. Snell’s decision to skip his final start against the Cardinals sparked concern, but his remarkable turnaround since the All-Star Break tells a different story. After overcoming a second IL stint, Snell has dominated on the mound, culminating in a historic milestone: his first career no-hitter on August 2, 2024, against the Cincinnati Reds.

Prepared and Ready: Snell’s Future is Now

Recently, Snell reflected on his contract situation, stating, “I love it here. I think we can be really, really good. I see a lot of promise, and I enjoy being here. We’ll see what happens. It sucks; I don’t like the whole decision-making process. I just want to be somewhere that wants me, loves me, and will invest in me to help me be the best player I can be to help them win. I liked it here, I hope it’s here. We’ll see.”

To persuade Blake Snell to stay, Buster Posey should emphasize the pitcher’s unique connection to the Giants. Remind Snell that he achieved his first career no-hitter in San Francisco and that this milestone is just the beginning of a legacy he can build with the team. By re-signing Snell, Posey can leverage the funds saved from Jorge Soler’s departed contract to secure a key piece of the Giants’ future.

With the budget already committed, Posey has a distinct advantage in negotiations. Prioritizing Snell’s re-signing over the search for a new general manager is crucial, as the Giants can avoid the challenges of attracting high-profile free agents. Snell is already an integral part of the team, and letting him leave would necessitate spending similar funds on lesser-known talent.

The ownership group’s faith in Posey, fueled by his name recognition and baseball acumen, now faces its first major test. Posey must use his influence to secure Snell’s long-term commitment, cementing the pitcher’s status as a Giants legend.

Capitalizing On the Momentum

As the 2024 season drew to a close, the Giants stunned MLB with a bold move. Now, they have another chance to make waves by retaining ace Blake Snell. With free agency looming, Buster Posey must extend an irresistible offer, echoing the successful approach used to secure Matt Chapman.

Additionally, the numbers support this move. In 2024, the Giants ranked 10th in MLB payroll, allocating $206 million. For 2025, their adjusted salary stands at $166 million, including Snell’s $30 million option. Without it, the figure drops to $133 million. Given Posey’s emphasis on preparation, re-signing Snell is vital for building a competitive roster.

Projected Rotation with Snell:

(1) Snell (LHP) – Opt-Option: 2025
(2) Logan Webb (RHP) – Contract Expires: 2029
(3) Robbie Ray (LHP) – Contract Expires: 2027
(4) Jordan Hicks (RHP) – Contract Expires: 2028
(5) Kyle Harrison (LHP) – Pre-Arbitration Player

Snell, turning 32 in December, is likely to have three more peak years ahead, mirroring the trajectories of Max Scherzer and Justin Verlander. Scott Boras, Snell’s agent, will likely seek a six-year deal similar to Carlos Rodon’s. Firstly, if Snell opts out of his $30 million option, teams may offer an average annual value (AAV) of $40 million.

To secure Snell’s future, the Giants should consider a four-year, $160 million contract with a mutual option for the fourth year. This structure:

Provides Snell with three guaranteed years

Allows for flexibility in the fourth year, enabling both parties to re-negotiate, exercise the option, or part ways

Limits the Giants’ long-term commitment

Gives Snell the opportunity to retire on a high note, potentially with World Series championships, or explore other options

The Los Angeles Dodgers innovative approach with Shohei Ohtani serves as a model. By thinking creatively, the Giants can craft a deal that benefits both Snell and the team. Unless Snell signs elsewhere, the focus should remain on retaining him in San Francisco.

Building Around Chapman and Lee

Assuming no unexpected setbacks, Matt Chapman will likely retire as a Giant, providing veteran leadership and all-around skills. The infield is shaping up with:

Tyler Fitzgerald as starting shortstop, following his impressive 2024 performance

Patrick Bailey behind the plate

Lamont Wade returning on a discounted arbitration deal

This configuration opens up second base for Marco Luciano to prove himself, or potentially face a trade similar to Joey Bart‘s.

In the outfield:

Jung-Hoo Lee, despite an injury-shortened season, remains an exciting outfielder, embodying the Giants’ trademark defense and timely hitting

Heliot Ramos is poised to take right field

Either Luis Matos or Grant McCray will occupy left field, continuing the position’s revolving door

(1) Jung-Hoo Lee (CF)
(2) Tyler Fitzgerald (SS)
(3) Matt Champman (3B)
(4) Heliot Ramos (RF)
(5) Lamont Wade Jr. (1B)
(6) Patrick Bailey (C)
(7) Marco Luciano (2B)
(8) Luis Matos (LF)
(9) Grant McCray (DH)

This is the most cost-effective lineup that the Giants can put together. However, just think about the possibilities if they were to add another top player, such as Pete Alonso or Juan Soto. This lineup gives the Giants the best opportunity to build a younger, faster team with strong defensive abilities, which can help to reduce the number of hits and runs scored by opponents. The combination of speed and talent in this lineup allows for walks, steals, and bunts, giving them the ability to create runs even when facing teams with more powerful hitters.

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