How San Francisco Giants Top Prospects are Fairing in Spring Training

Hitters

When you think about the top position players for the San Francisco Giants in their farm system, the first name that comes to mind is Christian Arroyo.

The 21-year-old got a long look for the second spring in a row with 18 at-bats over 16 games. He tallied 5 hits, a home run and 4 RBIs this spring. He only struck out four times, but didn’t pick up any walks.

He was actually much better last spring when he had 10 hits in 18 at-bats with 2 home runs, 6 RBIs, 2 walks and just 2 strikeouts.

Arroyo got some looks at third base, which is probably his quickest path to the big leagues with the Giants. He will most likely start the season in Triple-A, and if he hits the ball well there, I think he’s the first position player to get called up this year.

Unless there is a need in the outfield, in which case I think Steven Duggar has earned some consideration. The 23-year-old hit .333 (4-12) this spring with 4 walks and 2 stolen bases.

There’s a chance Duggar could go back to Double-A to start 2017, but I think he ultimately ends up in Triple-A. And like Arroyo, if he continues to swing the bat well I think he could earn a call-up in 2017.

Aramis Garcia received just 4 at-bats this spring and picked up 1 hit and 2 strikeouts. The catching prospect is ranked as the 15th best prospect for the Giants. He’s already 24 and will probably start this year at Double-A. I’ve seen this kid in person several times and he can hit. I think he has the chance to be a back-up catcher one day for the Giants, or potential trade bait.

Shortstop prospect C.J. Hinojosa has played in eight games this spring, but has just one hit in eight at-bats. The 22-year-old needs some more grooming in Double-A before determining his future with the San Francisco Giants.

Outfield prospect Austin Slater is reaching a crucial point in his career as he’s 24 years old and already at the Triple-A level. He has put together a solid spring going 5-16 at the plate in 11 games. He’s hit at every level, I think he just needs a little more time develop.

He’ll go back to Triple-A to start the season, but depending on who performs better between Slater and Duggar will determine who gets the call-up if an outfield need arises.

Coming in at number 30 on the prospect rankings is infielder Ryder Jones. The 22-year-old is a former second round pick, and he played in the Arizona Fall League this past year. He got a pretty good look in spring training playing in 13 games and getting 4 hits in 12 at-bats.

Jones could start in Double-A, but a good performance will get him moved up to Triple-A quickly. He could become a solid utility bat for the San Francisco Giants one day.