Giants To Decline Vogelsong’s Option; Still Looking to Sign Him

Aug 15, 2013; Washington, DC, USA; San Francisco Giants starting pitcher Ryan Vogelsong (32) throws during the second inning against the Washington Nationals at Nationals Park. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports

The San Francisco Giants will not be picking up RHP Ryan Vogelsong‘s club option for 2014, according to CSN Bay Area’s Andrew Baggarly. Vogelsong’s option for next season would be $6.5 million, with only a $300,000 buyout. However, that doesn’t mean he won’t be in a Giants uniform next season or even that the Giants wouldn’t like to see him back. They just want him back for less money, and likely to free up some payroll to keep reliever and left-handed specialist, Javier Lopez who becomes a free agent as of Tuesday morning.

The Giants have notified Vogelsong of their intentions and it’s expected to be announced officially on Monday.

Vogelsong’s storybook comeback hit a snag this past season with a broken finger, as well as going 4-6 and recording a 5.73 ERA. However, much like Tim Lincecum, Giants fans, and even the front office, are somewhat connected to Vogelsong and his “story.” At age 37, I’d expect Vogelsong would like to retire as a Giant. Whether that happens or not remains to be seen.

As for the Giants payroll and Javier Lopez, he’s coming off a great season and will likely be one of the most sought after relievers. If the Giants can lock him up before free agency, they’ll likely save some money. He’s express interest in returning to San Francisco, so signing him in the next day very likely could happen. In 2013, Lopez through 39.1 innings, with a 1.83 ERA and gave up only 1 home run. In fact, in 3 1/2 seasons, Lopez has only give up 2 home runs as a Giant. He made $4.25 million in 2013.