3 potential internal options for the SF Giants to replace Justin Verlander

SF Giants starter Justin Verlander is struggling and the team may soon run out of patience with him. While the trade route is probably the best option, maybe the Giants would prefer to replace him in the rotation with an internal option.

If they were to do so, there are three names within the organization currently in the minor leagues who could supplant Verlander in the rotation.

3 internal options for SF Giants to replace Justin Verlander in the starting rotation

The Giants are coming to a crossroads with the 42-year old vetera. He has an 0-8 record on the year and a 4.99 ERA in 16 starts. His most recent start in Toronto was dismal. If things do not change quickly, the Giants are going to have to make a change and it could come from within even if the trade route is more promising. Let's examine three internal pitchers the Giants could try.

1. Carson Whisenhunt

The top pitching prospect in the organization is left-handed pitcher Carson Whisenhunt. He recently appeared in the Futures Game and had a solid outing. He has spent the entire season pitching for the River Cats in Triple-A Sacramento.

In 17 starts on the year, he has a 4.50 ERA in 94 innings pitched. He has 82 strikeouts compared to 28 walks.

Those numbers do not fly off the page, but the 24-year-old has a devastating changeup and it may be time to see how it plays at the big league level.

2. Carson Seymour

Carson Seymour had a cup of coffee with the Giants earlier this season. He gave up two earned runs in four innings pitched before being sent back down to the minors.

His ERA in Sacramento on the season is 3.86 in 77 innings pitched. It may be worth giving him a shot at starting in the big leagues.

3. Mason Black

Giants fans will remember Mason Black from last season. He struggled quite a bit, giving up 26 earned runs in 36 and 1/3 innings pitched. He did not fare much better in his lone appearance this season, giving up three earned runs and two homers in four innings of work.

None of these internal options inspire a ton of confidence. Even though Verlander has been bad, it is hard to argue any of these pitchers would be much better. Of course, one could argue the Giants should just give them a try to see what happens, but that seems like a risky endeavor.

Perhaps they should give one of these guys a shot if they are out of it at some point in the second half. But as long as they are in contention, looking for a pitcher via trade is probably their best bet at genuinely improving the rotation.

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