SF Giants News: New numbers, Larry Casian recognition, No. 2 FanFest stop

The SF Giants offseason has come to a halt. There is some news, including number changes for Jerar Encarnación and Drew Gilbert, Larry Casian recognized for his scouting efforts, and the second stop for FanFest coming up later today.

SF Giants News: New numbers, Larry Casian recognition, No. 2 FanFest stop

New numbers for Drew Gilbert and Jerar Encarnación

During FanFest last week, Bryce Eldridge announced that he switched from No. 78 to No. 8. That is not the only number change.

According to the team's transaction log, Drew Gilbert has changed to No. 1 and Jerar Encarnación has changed to No. 19. Both outfielders will be competing for playing time this spring. Gilbert's ability to handle all three outfield positions could give him an edge, but Encarnación has displayed intriguing raw power in the past. The right-handed hitter is out of minor league options, so he will need to make the club out of camp.

Larry Casian recognized as 2026 Dick Tidrow Scout of the Year

On Friday, the Giants announced that veteran scout Larry Casian has been recognized with the 2026 Dick Tidrow Scout of the Year Award. Casian covers the Pacific Northwest.

His notable signings include Ryan Walker, Hunter Dryden, and Drake George. The latter two were selected in the 2024 draft, and helped anchor a San Jose Giants pitching staff that led the California League with a 3.50 ERA in 2025.

Casian is in his 10th season with the club, and this is the first time they have recognized him with this award since its inception in 2022. The award is to remember Tidrow, who passed away in 2021. He spent 28 years in the Giants' front office, serving in a variety of roles.

No. 2 stop for FanFest

The Giants head to San Ramon later this morning for FanFest. This will be their second of four stops. The event is held at City Center Bishop Ranch and starts at 12:00 PM and concludes at 3:00 PM.

Tony Vitello, Jung Hoo Lee, and Logan Webb will be among the attendees. Hayden Birdsong, Landen Roupp, and Erik Miller will also be in attendance.