Ranking the top 3 SF Giants needs at the 2024 MLB trade deadline

Ranking the top 3 SF Giants needs at the 2024 MLB trade deadline

2. Infield help and flexibility 

This is a bit of a different need than in years past. Normally the Giants have a plethora of infielders but need help in the outfield. For some reason, it’s a different case this season.

Luckily, there are going to be a ton of options to address this need with most of the available players able to play a different position to help with defensive flexibility. 

There are also multiple tiers of players who will inevitably be way harder to acquire than others. These players are ones like Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Bo Bichette who could both possibly be traded, which would be shocking. 

If I had to choose one infield position of need, it would be first base. The team would be much better if LaMonte Wade Jr. moved to the outfield full-time as the strong-side platoon guy in a corner outfield position. While moving Wade Jr. to the outfield is one option, it might be tough given the number of leg injuries he has sustained in recent seasons. 

So that leaves guys like Josh Bell who would be an under-the-radar impactful player who can play against everyone as a switch hitter while playing good defense. He is always a candidate to be traded and may be available for a reasonable price along with teammate Jake Burger who can play the corners. 

I also like the Angels' second baseman Brandon Drury. He can play first and third and has even played outfield in the past. He was the Angels’ second most productive player last season but has fought injuries all season. The Angels are open like it’s Disneyland on Christmas too so they should make a move to send him elsewhere. 

With a move or two to sure up the infield, the team shouldn’t have guys like David Villar playing and should also get more production in the lineup. 

Ranking the top 3 SF Giants needs at the 2024 MLB trade deadline

3. Catching depth

Patrick Bailey has emerged as one of the better two-way catchers in baseball. Yet, he has still been injured over the past two seasons. The concussions are something that concerns me, too. 

However, this appears to be a very thin market at this time. The only options shouldn’t be all that hard to get either, which is good news. 

The Rockies have Elías Díaz who has been a fine catcher. He has hit enough to qualify as a good backup if needed to start. 

Danny Jansen and Alejandro Kirk are on the Blue Jays and both are capable of starting. They may move one of them for prospects. 

Curt Casali has been great to have back as a backup. But I’m a believer in carrying three quality catchers because it’s a position with a lot of wear and tear. On that same note, Bailey should also start taking the Buster Posey route and playing some first base to be in the lineup more often and stay healthier for longer. The bottom line is Bailey is a franchise cornerstone and the Giants need to treat him as such. 

With the trade deadline here, the Giants need to take the opportunity to get better. A playoff spot would be great but plugging holes will help make that a reality.