San Francisco Giants Free Agent Targets: Michael Brantley

As the San Francisco Giants looks to rebuild their outfield in 2019, one name that makes a lot of sense is Michael Brantley.

The San Francisco Giants essentially have three outfield spots up for grabs, with some internal prospects in the mix. But at least two of those spots will likely come through a free agent signing or trade — unless the team decides to rebuild in 2019.

One player that makes a lot of sense for the Giants is Michael Brantley.

Now I’ve been critical of the Giants signing or acquiring aging players and giving them a lot of money, but Brantley might be worth the risk.

He’s projected to get a four-year deal this offseason for around $70-$80 million. To me, that price is a little steep.

Brantley will play next season at 32 and has missed a lot of time recently with injuries — only playing 101 games between 2016 and 2017.

He did bounce back to play 143 games last year with Cleveland hitting .309 with 89 runs scored, 17 home runs, 76 RBI, and a .364 on-base percentage.

According to Baseball Reference, his projected totals for 2019 are a .286 average with 71 runs scored, 14 home runs, 67 RBI, and a .345 on-base percentage.

Those numbers aren’t much different than what Andrew McCutchen gave the Giants last year. I think the two guys are very similar and make sense for the Giants.

It may ultimately come down to which guy comes at a cheaper cost. McCutchen will also play next season at age 32.

Brantley gives the Giants a high on-base percentage guy who can hit anywhere in the lineup. You know as long as he’s healthy he’s going to hit with a career average of .295.

I still think $70 million is way too much for Brantley. If the San Francisco Giants can get him on a three-year deal with a fourth-year team option at about $14 million a year it would be a great deal.