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It is not clear why speedy, struggling SF Giants outfielder is still on roster

His struggles are becoming too hard to ignore.
ByNick San Miguel|
Sep 22, 2024; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; San Francisco Giants center fielder Grant McCray (58) hits an RBI triple during the second inning against the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images
Sep 22, 2024; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; San Francisco Giants center fielder Grant McCray (58) hits an RBI triple during the second inning against the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images | Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images

The SF Giants have had an open audition in right field ever since trading away Mike Yastrzemski. Grant McCray has been one of those auditioning, but his struggles make one wonder why he is still on the roster.

In nine games and 20 at-bats, McCray has just two hits. He has struck out 10 times in those 20 at-bats which shows he has really just been outmatched at the big league level this season.

Grant McCray's struggles with SF Giants could get him demoted

McCray was called up earlier this month after Yastrzemski got traded. He figured to see a good amount of playing time, but that has simply not been the case. His struggles are a big reason for that, but so was the team calling up Drew Gilbert who was acquired in the Tyler Rogers trade.

Late last season, McCray was called up and did some solid things for the team. He flashed his speed and impressive outfield defense and even flashed some power with five home runs in 37 games played. Still, his batting average was a meager .202 and he had a high strikeout rate which is why it took him some time to earn a spot with the Giants this season despite putting up solid numbers in Triple-A.

With how he has struggled so far this season, even in a small sample size, the Giants may be better served giving someone else a shot. Gilbert has looked better as of late and should receive a lengthy look, but the team could also give a chance to someone like Marco Luciano who has 20 homers in Triple-A this season.

Maybe the team feels McCray's speed and defense give them a bit more flexibility as he can come in later in games for his defense or to serve as a pinch runner. Still, his profile as a left-handed hitting speed and defense first outfielder is too similar to Gilbert's to get him substantial playing time since the Giants want to see what they have with Gilbert.

McCray is still just 24 and has plenty of time to figure things out, but for right now the Giants may be better served giving someone else an opportunity the rest of this season.

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