One area of the SF Giants roster that will be tough to make additions

There are quite a few soon-to-be free agents who would provide a boost to the SF Giants lineup. However, if they are limited to first base or DH, it is going to be a tough roster fit.

One area of the SF Giants roster that will be tough to make additions

The Giants have outlined a long-term plan with Rafael Devers and Bryce Eldridge. The plan is for them to split time at first base and DH.

Devers is signed through the 2033 season. He originally came up as a third baseman, but moved off of that position this year. He picked up first base on the fly, and looked comfortable at a new position.

On the other hand, the Giants hope that Eldridge can be paired with Devers in the middle of the lineup for years to come. He is still relatively new to first base as well.

There are not many instances of a long-term duo splitting time at first base and DH. The Giants are going against the grain to some extent. Down the road, it may make sense to at least experiment with Eldridge in left field. That would give them just a touch more flexibility.

So, the Giants have Devers and Eldridge penciled in at first base and DH for now.

There are a few free agents who would provide a boost to the lineup. The defensive fit might be a little too much to overcome. The Giants have seemingly already recognized this with Dominic Smith.

Pete Alonso, Josh Naylor, Ryan O’Hearn, and Kyle Schwarber would immediately upgrade the Giants’ lineup. They are all also in the market for multi-year deals, and deservedly so.

There could be a fit for a first baseman or DH as a short-term substitute. The Giants have not committed to starting next year with Eldridge on the roster. They may want him to get more minor league seasoning.

That would create an opening for a niche role. Someone like Ty France or Josh Bell would fit that description. Presumably, they would keep the seat warm until Eldridge arrives. 

Once he does, playing time would dry up immediately for that short-term first baseman. They would likely need to make a move because keeping that type of defender on the bench is a tough roster fit. 

The Giants believe they have first base and DH covered, so you can probably cross those positions off the list. They have more pressing needs.