San Francisco Giants Spring Training Previews: Starting Pitchers

Tyler Beede:

I put Beede in the Dark Horse category simply because he has yet to pitch in a major league game. There are definitely people who have him as the favorite for the 5 spot and he very well could get it with a solid spring, but personally I’d at least start the season with experience in the form of Blach and maybe have Beede as a long relief man.

Beede’s rough 2017 which ended in injury has led to people doubting his ability to make a big contribution, but even if he starts the season in Triple-A he’s just one injury or one poor performer away from getting called up to the show. Let’s hope he’s ready should that be the case.

Derek Holland:

Holland has spent the majority of his career with the Texas Rangers where he had a couple of solid seasons. However, injuries and poor performance have now led to him fighting for a spot on a big league roster. His 7-14 record along with his 6.20 ERA last season with the White Sox doesn’t inspire a lot of confidence, but the Giants are giving him a shot.

It’s worth noting the luxury tax when discussing Holland because if he were to have a great spring and make it into the rotation, his contract would put them over the threshold which may force them to cut someone or trade someone with a big contract away which they probably aren’t keen on doing.

Nonetheless, I think we still have to watch out for Holland this spring. Don’t underestimate the will of a pitcher determined to resurrect his career. Also, it’s worth mentioning that Derek Holland is a left handed pitcher wearing the number 45 and we all know how that’s worked out for the Giants in the past cough cough, Dan Runzler, cough, Matt Moore.

Andrew Suarez:

Suarez is another southpaw vying for a spot in the rotation, except he’s young and doesn’t have the experience of Holland. Apparently he’s already been opening some eyes this spring, so perhaps he’ll surprise some people and nab the 5-spot.

It’s much likelier that he starts the season in Triple-A, but much like Beede if a starter goes down to injury or someone struggles, he could be the first guy to get the call.

Chris Heston:

A possible oversight in the San Francisco Giants’ off-season nostalgia trip with the return of Gregor Blanco and Hector Sanchez, Heston could worm his way into the rotation or perhaps a long relief role with an impressive spring.

No one needs to be reminded of Heston’s magical no-hitter at Citi Field in 2015. It’s also worth remembering that at one point that year Heston was forcing his way into the Rookie of the Year discussion alongside Matt Duffy and Kris Bryant. It’ll be interesting to see if Heston still possesses that filthy sinker which made him so effective at times that year.

However, the ball doesn’t move in Arizona like it does in San Francisco, so don’t be surprised if Heston ends up starting the season in Triple-A.