SF Giants GM Zack Minasian outlines long-term plan for a pair of left-handed power bats

It is hard to ignore that both Bryce Eldridge and Rafael Devers play the same position. However, SF Giants general manager Zack Minasian outlined the long-term plan for both being that they will split time at first base and DH.

SF Giants GM Zack Minasian outlines long-term plan for a pair of left-handed power bats

On Thursday morning, Minasian joined the Murph and Markus Show on KNBR to discuss a number of Giants topics, including the disappointing finish to the season. The conversation shifted to Eldridgge, and the Giants general manager outlined the long-term plan to incorporate both him and Devers:

"He [Eldridge] has gotten some first base. He's DH'd. Get's Raffy [Devers} off his feet. I think long term, that is probably what we envision, as far as those two being able to split time, and it has been encouraging to see Bryce's defense. "

Zack Minasian

This is certainly the most logical approach to take. That said, how the Giants planned on incorporating both into the lineup has been a topic since the trade. Devers has adjusted nicely to first base after spending his entire career at the hot corner.

On the other hand, Eldridge is still learning the nuances of the position. He has made some nice plays, including turning a double play against the Los Angeles Dodgers last week.

There is only one first base and one DH. Earmarking those spots in the long term for both Eldridge and Devers does limit some roster flexibility. Many teams like to use the DH spot as a way to give players a day off from the field, but that may not be in the cards for the Giants. If they both hit, then this is likely a moot point.

Down the road, the Giants could experiment with Eldridge in left field. He is not a fast runner, but they did explore that idea in the past with Brandon Belt. This would be just a way to give the coaching staff a little more flexibility.

In the interview, Zack Minasian was complimentary of what Eldridge has brought to the table. While he only has three hits in 24 at-bats, he has made a lot of loud contact that should translate to above-average power numbers as he develops.

Minasian did not commit to Eldridge being up for good. The Giants will look at ways to upgrade the roster, and he left the door open for the 20-year-old hitter to return to Triple-A to start next season. However, if he hits well in spring training, it will likely take the decision out of the front office's hands.

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