SF Giants swing trade for versatile utility player

The SF Giants swung a trade on Thursday. They acquired infielder/outfielder Dalton Guthrie in exchange for cash considerations according to the team's transaction log. Mitch Haniger (forearm) was transferred to the 60-day injured list.

SF Giants swing trade for versatile utility player

The news on Haniger was not surprising. The veteran bat fractured his forearm after being hit by a pitch in a game against the St. Louis Cardinals on June 13.

He underwent surgery shortly thereafter, revealing that the expected recovery time would be at least 10 weeks. He has a chance to return later this season if all goes according to plan.

Haniger slashed .230/.281/.372 (79 OPS+) with four home runs, 22 RBI, and 20 runs in 160 plate appearances. This includes a 5.6 percent walk rate against a 26.3 percent strikeout rate.

The right-handed bat has been a solid hitter throughout his career, reaching the 20-homer threshold twice. His numbers may not show it, but Haniger was beginning to make quality contact. The hits were just not falling.

Of course, the front office never lets an open roster spot go to waste, so Guthrie is the team's newest addition to the 40-man roster. The 27-year-old was drafted in the sixth round of the 2017 draft out of the University of Florida in Gainesville, Florida.

Across six minor league seasons, Guthrie has registered a .262/.321/.401 line with a 6.3 percent walk rate against an 18.3 percent strikeout rate. This includes an .861 OPS in 96 plate appearances in Triple-A. He does not hit for a lot of power, but he puts the ball in play a lot and uses the entire field.

Guthrie is an extremely versatile player as he has appeared at shortstop, second base, third base, and all three outfield positions in the minors. Shortstop and center field were his primary positions in the minors, so the ability to handle a premium position should hold value.

The right-handed bat debuted for the Phillies in 2022 and he has tallied a respectable .726 OPS in 56 plate appearances through two seasons. However, due to a roster jam, the Phillies designated him for assignment a couple of days ago. He did not get a chance to clear waivers as he was scooped up by the Giants.

It should be mentioned that Bryce Johnson was recently recalled and if he is optioned again, it will be his third option of the season. Players are limited to just five options in a season, so this is something to monitor.