3 dark horse candidates for SF Giants starting rotation in 2025

The SF Giants appear likely to try to bolster their starting rotation in the offseason. Even if they land a big free agent, there will still be a competition for the last few spots and these dark horse candidates will be in the mix.

If one projects the rotation for the Giants going into 2025, there is promise but also a lot of uncertainty. Let's take a look at three pitchers who showed solid signs in 2024 and could snag a spot in the rotation next season.

3 dark horse candidates for SF Giants starting rotation in 2025

1. Landen Roupp

Landen Roupp had a interesting rookie campaign in 2024. Despite Double-A being the highest level he had pitched in, he had such an impressive spring training that he made the opening day roster as a reliever for the Giants, leapfrogging Triple-A in the process. He did have some struggles early on that got him sent to the minors, but that allowed him to get some work in as a starter which helped him later on.

By the end of the year he was in the rotation for the Giants due to injuries. In 4 starts to close the year he looked good for the most part. In his first 3 starts beginning in September he pitched 5 innings in each and allowed 2 earned runs total in those 15 innings. 

His final start of the year was rough as he surrendered 6 earned runs in 3 and 2/3 innings of work. But he still showed a lot of promise and proved that his wicked breaking ball can play at the big league level. He could snag the fifth spot in the rotation with a strong spring or if there are injuries or he could be an effective long man in the bullpen.

2. Mason Black

Another rookie who made his MLB debut for the Giants was Mason Black. He had a rough go of things overall as he had a 1-5 record and 6.44 ERA in 36 and 1/3 innings.

Like Roupp he ended up in the rotation by the end of the year and had some solid showings like his start on September 20th against the Kansas City Royals where he pitched 5 and 2/3 innings and allowed no earned runs. 

That was the main bright spot of the year and if he can build upon that next season, he could be a rotation piece.

3. Tristan Beck

Tristan Beck had a wild year. He was a candidate to be in the rotation going into 2024 before an aneurysm in his arm placed him on the shelf for most of the season. He was able to return by the end of the year and looked great in September.

It’s a small sample size, but in 16 innings of work he only allowed 3 earned runs and finished the season with a nice start against the St. Louis Cardinals in which he went 4 innings and only gave up one run. 

He could definitely be a long reliever for the team if he does not make the rotation but would also be an option to start in case of injury.

These players may be at the bottom of the rotation next year if they make the team at all, but we know that teams need strength throughout their entire rotation, not just at the top. Perhaps one of these pitchers can emerge as a strong 5th rotation arm next season.