SF Giants place LaMonte Wade on IL, recall Steven Duggar

Before their game against the Cincinnati Reds on Wednesday, the SF Giants announced a pair of roster moves. The team placed outfielder LaMonte Wade Jr on the injured list with a strained left oblique and recalled outfielder Steven Duggar from the alternate site. Wade was added to the big-league roster just a few days ago but experienced some discomfort during Tuesday’s game.

The Giants acquired Wade this offseason in a trade with the Minnesota Twins to join their upper minor-league outfield depth. Competing for a spot on the Opening Day roster, Wade hit just .182/.302/.318 during spring training and was optioned to the alternate site. However, when Reyes Moronta was placed on the injured list, Wade was called up to San Francisco. He managed two hits, including a double, with a walk and two strikeouts across seven plate appearances before his injury.

The SF Giants placed LaMonte Wade Jr on the IL and recalled Steven Duggar.

Duggar has jostled between San Francisco and the minor leagues for the past few years. Once a top prospect in the organization, Duggar has plateaued in recent years as a glove-first fifth outfielder. In 135 career MLB games from 2018-2020, Duggar has hit just .236/.281/.349 with 27 walks and 133 strikeouts. However, the Clemson alum worked on his swing this offseason to hit for more power and posted a .784 OPS this spring.

Regardless of his offensive capabilities, Duggar remains the best defensive outfielder in the Giants organization. He combines his above-average arm, plus speed, and elite instincts well in center but also play in each corner. If manager Gabe Kapler is looking for a late-game defensive replacement, Duggar easily becomes his best option on the bench.

Outfielder LaMonte Wade Jr quickly made a strong impression for SF Giants fans this season, but after suffering an oblique injury, Steven Duggar will take his place on the big-league roster.