San Francisco Giants: Three Minor Leaguers who can help in 2018
Chris Shaw
Shaw is probably the best candidate to help out the Giants next year. Landing Stanton might curb his potential innings a bit, or even see him slip off the team entirely as part of the return for Stanton. But until that hypothetical situation becomes a reality, we’re including Shaw.
Shaw has been a fast mover since he joined the organization, moving from San Jose (A) to Richmond (AA) in 2016, and Richmond (AA) to Sacramento (AAA) in 2017. His only real struggle has been when making the jump from San Jose to Richmond initially. That jump is usually what slows down prospects. Those who can get through double-a quickly, usually end up turning out pretty good. Shaw’s ceiling is likely Brandon Belt, but with the ability to competently play the OF.
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He was going to get some time in the outfield in the Arizona Fall League in 2017, but that didn’t really work out due to injury. He did get a start in centerfield, weirdly enough. However, the Giants will likely keep Shaw at a corner outfield spot, which is smart. He doesn’t have the range to play CF at AT&T Park, and it would be better served keeping him at a corner outfield spot so they can keep him used to seeing the ball off the bat from that position.
Shaw still hit for average and power in AAA (.289 and 18 homers), but saw his plate discipline waver. He will likely start out the 2018 season in Sacramento. I don’t see them handing him a 25-man spot out of Spring Training. If he forces his way up, then I’m sure the Giants would give him a shot. But a start in AAA gives him a chance to get back to his usually good plate discipline. If he can do that, he’s destined to get a call-up at some point in 2018. When he gets there, he should be ready to make a good impact.