SF Giants craft lefty pitching prospect earns promotion, returns to Triple-A

The SF Giants made one transaction in the minors earlier this week. Craft, lefty-handed pitching prospect John Michael Bertrand earned a promotion to Triple-A, per the team's transaction log. Chase Ford of MiLB Central was the first to report this promotion.

SF Giants craft lefty pitching prospect earns promotion, returns to Triple-A

In a corresponding move, minor league catcher Zach Morgan was moved down to the Richmond Flying Squirrels. Morgan saw time behind the plate with the Sacramento River Cats, but that area of the roster has become crowded lately. He posted a .738 OPS in 48 plate appearances in Triple-A.

For Bertrand, this is a return to Sacramento. He finished the year with them last season, and likely would have been assigned to Triple-A to start this year. However, the River Cats had a lot of starting pitching depth to begin the year. This included Kyle Harrison, Trevor McDonald, Mason Black, Keaton Winn, Carson Whisenhunt, Carson Seymour, and Carson Ragsdale.

That depth has been depleted due to promotions and trades. Harrison was included in the deal to acquire Rafael Devers. Ragsdale was claimed off of waivers by the Baltimore Orioles in August.

Winn began the season in Sacramento's rotation, but had a lengthy stint on the injured list and transitioned to the bullpen upon his return.

This has opened the door for Bertrand to return to Sacramento. He was originally a 10th-round pick by the club in 2022 out of the University of Notre Dame.

The 27-year-old pitcher has done well at every level thus far. This includes a 2.87 ERA with 91 strikeouts and 51 walks in 131.2 innings this year. He had a 5.91 ERA in five starts in April, but pitched to a 2.28 ERA in his final 20 starts with the Flying Squirrels.

On the mound, the southpaw pitcher does not overpower hitters, but his three-quarters arm slot adds some deception. He can also throw the kitchen sink and commands his arsenal well. He leads with a low-90's sinker that he pairs with a cutter, slider, and changeup. Bertrand will throw an occasional curveball and sweeper as well.

Bertrand's sinker does a good job at keeping the ball on the ground, and his slider can steal a few strikes. Plus, he fields his position well and covers a lot of ground. Bertrand is eligible for the Rule 5 draft this winter.

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