Latest SF Giants bullpen addition continues frustrating trend for unit that still needs help

This offseason may not have gone according to plan, but it appears that the SF Giants’ front office had a blueprint that they would hoard inexpensive, injured relievers and hope that one or two of them would eventually become helpful. They’ve certainly accomplished that goal, with a clean bill of health from a physical practically disqualifying pitchers from signing in San Francisco.

Latest SF Giants bullpen addition continues frustrating trend for unit that still needs help

The latest battered addition is right-handed Canadian Rowan Wick, whom the Giants themselves announced was signed to a one-year major league deal. The catch, since there always is one, is that he won’t throw a single pitch the entire year. Wick is recovering from Tommy John surgery and won’t pitch until 2027, when the Giants hold a club option for his services that they apparently plan on exercising.

Even though he won’t be an option for the team this year, there’s reason enough to hope that Wick’s candle isn’t burning at both ends. He comes back to the U.S. after two years with Japan’s Yokohama DeNA BayStars, where he recorded an excellent 1.75 ERA across 87.2 innings. He also struck out a promising 99 batters during that sample.

As a major leaguer, Wick does have 20 career saves that he earned with the Chicago Cubs between the 2019-22 seasons. He flamed out after that, though, even struggling in Triple-A before being forced to reinvent himself overseas. He could compete with Jason Foley and Randy Rodríguez for save chances next year, if he’s able to bounce back in what will be his age-34 season. Those two will also be returning from injuries themselves, of course.

In the meantime, the Giants have constructed their bullpen out of popsicle sticks that were salvaged from a termite nest. Ryan Walker is still projected to be the team’s de facto closer, with Joel Peguero and Erik Miller comprising the expected setup duo. Behind them - best not to think about it too much.

Adding one true closer would have allowed each of that trio to slot down into lower-leverage roles they would have been better suited for, but the front office apparently did not have the financial flexibility to make that happen. Ownership’s portfolio, however, remains very flexible.

If the Giants’ rotation options stay healthy throughout spring, it’s possible that someone like Hayden Birdsong could be given an opportunity to lengthen the bullpen and provide some desperately needed upside. The lineup has improved, but if the bullpen ends up being the problem area that costs them a playoff spot, fans will be burning up with anger over the team’s lazy roster construction.