SF Giants get much-needed Bryce Eldridge insurance by signing Luis Arraez

By signing contact-hitter extraordinaire Luis Arraez, the SF Giants have not only addressed a weakness in their lineup, they have also added a player who can serve as insurance for top prospect Bryce Eldridge.

Before the Giants signed Arraez to be their second baseman, Eldridge seemed to be the likeliest choice to serve as the team's designated hitter. He still seems likely to serve in that role at some point this season, but the Giants now have a backup plan in case that does not work out.

SF Giants have a backup plan for Bryce Eldridge in Luis Arraez

It can be easy to talk yourself into something as a fan even when you should probably be questioning it. Remember when everyone just assumed that Marco Luciano was going to be the Opening Day shortstop in 2024 until everyone got to camp and the Giants realized they had made a grave error and signed Nick Ahmed as insurance?

The Arraez signing is not on the same level as that, but the move could serve as preemptive insurance in case Eldridge comes out of the gates slow if he does indeed make the big league club out of Scottsdale which is far from a given.

It is worth remembering that Eldridge is still 21 years old, began last season in Double-A, was rushed up to Sacramento where he put up solid power numbers but struck out a ton, and then was called up for a cup of coffee with the Giants in September where he had just three hits in 28 at-bats.

The most logical thing for the Giants to do would be to start Eldridge off in Triple-A and let him develop a bit more and get hot down there before calling him up. Having him break camp with the team might put a bit too much pressure on the tall first baseman even if he has a ton of upside.

Maybe roll with Jerar Encarnacion as the DH for the first couple weeks of the season since he's out of options, then reassess things and correct course if it proves to be a mistake.

And while the Giants have committed to having Arraez play second base right now, his defensive woes could easily have him moved off that position at some point in the year. If that happens then the Giants could simply move Arraez to the DH spot in the lineup or even first base if Rafael Devers has some difficulties there.

In short, the Arraez move gives the Giants more options and flexibility while also adding a three-time batting title champ to the lineup. Eldridge could certainly be a future star, but it's not a bad idea to have a backup plan in case he's not ready.