SF Giants outfielder begins rehab assignment in the Arizona Complex League

Speedy SF Giants outfielder Wade Meckler took the next step in his recovery from injury. He was sent to the Arizona Complex League (ACL) Giants to begin a rehab assignment.

SF Giants outfielder begins rehab assignment in the Arizona Complex League

As is often the case in the minors, the Giants did not provide any specifics about Meckler's injury. He sustained the injury in the middle of the game against the Albuquerque Isotopes on March 29. Meckler stole second base and was immediately removed from the game and replaced by Osleivis Basabe.

On Monday night, the left-handed bat recorded one hit with three RBI in three at-bats in his first game with the ACL Giants. That roster is full of recovering players who have experience at the higher levels.

Maui Ahuna, Turner Hill, and Jeremiah Jenkins are just some of the players on a rehab assignment in the ACL. Lefty pitcher Nick Zwack missed the 2024 season but returned to the mound to tally a scoreless frame with them on Tuesday.

For Meckler, the goal is just to stay on the field. He has missed nearly all of this season, and spent time on the injured list last year. The 25-year-old outfielder plays with a lot of energy, and that type of all-out style can lead to a few more injuries.

Meckler remains on the Giants' 40-man roster. Once he has completed his rehab assignment, he will return to the Sacramento River Cats. That lineup could use some help, as the River Cats are last in the Pacific Coast League with a .695 team OPS.

The young Giants outfielder has appeared in parts of three seasons with Sacramento, slashing .314/.401/.511 with a 12.7 percent walk rate, 14.8 percent strikeout rate, and .197 ISO. He does not hit for much power, but he has plate discipline and contact skills to be an effective leadoff hitter.

Meckler also appeared briefly with the Giants in 2023, but struggled to a .578 OPS in 64 plate appearances. He has above-average speed, and the Giants hope that it can translate to more stolen bases.

With experience at all three outfield positions, Meckler would seem like a good fit as a fourth outfielder. However, he has struggled with his jumps and routes at times in center field. For now, the Giants hope he can stay healthy and help the club down the stretch.