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SF Giants reportedly change gears on idea of trading popular outfielder

One idea seemingly off the table
ByJeff Young|
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Jul 25, 2026; San Francisco, California, USA; San Francisco Giants right fielder Jung Hoo Lee (51) hits a three run RBI home run against the Los Angeles Angels during the third inning at Oracle Park. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-Imagn Images
Jul 25, 2026; San Francisco, California, USA; San Francisco Giants right fielder Jung Hoo Lee (51) hits a three run RBI home run against the Los Angeles Angels during the third inning at Oracle Park. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

At one point, the SF Giants were open to the idea of trading popular outfielder Jung Hoo Lee. According to Marcus Smith of USA Today, they have reportedly changed gears on that idea and now plan to keep him.

Smith cites Lee’s popularity and marketability as reasons they have changed course.

A trade always seemed unlikely, but given how the season has gone, the Giants should listen on nearly every player. That includes Lee.

That said, a trade was going to be difficult to complete. The speedy outfielder’s contract presents more than one obstacle to a trade. The looming opt-out after the 2027 season is the most notable obstacle. Teams usually have a tough time assessing a player’s value when that is factored into the conversation.

The SF Giants outfield has been a soft spot for years and should look to move shy tradable players

The outfield has been a soft spot on the Giants’ roster for several years now. This season, they have put up a 95 wRC+ and 1.6 fWAR, both of which sit in the bottom half in baseball among outfield units.

Lee has hardly been the problem. He is slashing .302/.338/.436 (115 wRC+) with six home one, 40 RBI, and 52 runs in 399 plate appearances this year. He has a 1.5 fWAR, which is being weighed down by below-average defensive metrics. However, he has looked good in right field based on the eye test.

The left-handed bat would provide a boost to any lineup, so it is no surprise to see his name mentioned in trade talks. However, the latest report makes that a moot point. It could also be perceived as a signal for prospective teams to make better offers.

On the other hand, Heliot Ramos could be moved before the trade deadline. He is eligible for arbitration after this season and does not reach free agency until after the 2029 season. That type of controllability tends to have value in trade talks.

The 2024 NL All-Star has put up a .739 OPS with nine home runs and 34 RBI in 294 plate appearances. He has been a reliable source of power in the Giants’ lineup but a low walk rate and on-base percentage weigh down his offensive value.

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