5 surprising San Francisco Giants players that are willing the team back to life

May 13, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; San Francisco Giants second baseman Matt Duffy (5) steals second base while Houston Astros second baseman Jose Altuve (27) is late with the tag in the top of the first inning at Minute Maid Park. Mandatory Credit: Thomas B. Shea-USA TODAY Sports

Matt Duffy

Is Matt Duffy trade bait, or the next Giants’ mainstay at third-base? So far, the general fan consensus is that he should supplant the disappointing Casey McGehee at third. Duffy certainly outclasses his struggling teammate in just about every offensive category. Bruce Bochy remains confident that the veteran will piece his swing together, but it seems unlikely that he’ll stifle Duffy’s obvious progression for much longer.

Once Hunter Pence makes his anticipated return to the big leagues, utility infielder Joaquin Arias will likely be on the roster-spot chopping block despite being more experienced. Duffy seems ready for action after playing nine complete games at third-base without making an error.