SF Giants minor league affiliate clinches playoff spot with 1st half title

The San Jose Giants clinched a playoff spot earlier this week after securing the North Division title in the first half of the year. At 41-24, they have been the best team in the California League and arguably the best SF Giants minor league affiliate in 2025.

SF Giants minor league affiliate clinches playoff spot with 1st half title

Much of the Giants' success in the minors has taken place in the lower affiliates. The Arizona Complex League Giants have dominated that level with a 24-10 record. On the other hand, both Dominican Summer League (DSL) teams are off to a nice start.

In particular, the DSL Giants Black lead that league with an 11-2 record. The DSL Giants Orange are not far behind with a 9-3 record.

While organizations generally prioritize development over winning in the minors, the latter does set a good model for the organization. This is not the most scientifically-proven point, but the combined minor league win-loss record is a good sign of organizational health.

The San Jose Giants have dominated the California League all season. The roster consists of many players for the 2024 draft class, including Dakota Jordan Jakob Christian, and Robert Hipwell. The pitching staff leans heavily on college arms with recent draftees like Hunter Dryden, Drake George, Niko Mazza, and Greg Farone.

Lefty pitcher Jacob Bresnahan was a high school draft pick, but he offers more upside than just about every pitcher on San Jose's pitching staff. He recently earned California League Pitcher of the Week honors after throwing five nearly perfect innings against the Modesto Nuts.

Not surprisingly, the pitching staff leads the California League by a comfortable margin with a 3.34 ERA. The lineup is not too far behind, as it is second in the league with a .745 OPS.

On Wednesday night, San Jose defeated the Modesto Nuts by a score of 5-2. Jakob Christian led the way on offense with four hits, including a home run, and two RBI in four at-bats. On the pitching side, Niko Mazza allowed only one earned run in 4.2 frames. Undrafted lefty Charlie McDaniel followed with 3.1 shutout innings.

The success of San Jose's team could lead to a few promotions in the second half of the season. In the meantime, they continue to thrive in the California League, and have secured a spot in the playoffs.