SF Giants, Dodgers, and Guardians considered a fit for veteran shortstop

The MLB trade deadline is right around the corner, and with that comes the rumor mill. On Monday, Mark Feinsand of MLB.Com listed the best fits for 13 trade targets. This included the SF Giants being considered a fit for veteran shortstop Paul DeJong.

SF Giants, Dodgers, and Guardians considered a fit for veteran shortstop

Feinsand also listed the Cleveland Guardians and Los Angeles Dodgers as potential fits for DeJong. There is a strong chance the Chicago White Sox move their starting shortstop before the MLB trade deadline.

After all, he is only signed through this season, meaning he is a rental. Plus, Chicago has struggled to a 21-58 record, so there is no need to keep DeJong if they do not view him as a long-term option.

On paper, the Giants make some sense. They have gotten quality production from the shortstop position. In fact, Giants shortstops have registered a .269/.309/.380 line (98 wRC+) with -2 Outs Above Average (OAA) field.

Though, they have cycled through a few options, including Nick Ahmed, Marco Luciano, and Brett Wisely. Ahmed is still with the club as a reserve option, whereas Luciano continues to see time in Triple-A and getting some reps at second base. Wisely has assumed more time at shortstop lately and has done a nice job both in the field and at the plate.

On the other hand, Paul DeJong is off to a solid start with the White Sox, slashing .234/.283/.456 (106 wRC+) with 14 home runs, 30 RBI, and 30 runs in 258 plate appearances. He is not much of an on-base threat, but he offers modest power with a serviceable glove at a premium position.

The eight-year veteran had a brief stint with the Giants last season where he struggled to the tune of a .466 OPS with just one home run in 50 plate appearances. Despite the Giants' need for help at shortstop in 2023, they cut ties with DeJong right before the end of the season.

Given his shaky recent track record, the cost to acquire DeJong would be minimal. The Giants could use more power in the lineup, but they may want to continue seeing if Wisely can hold down the position.