SF Giants reportedly not in the mix for top power-hitting corner outfielder

Corner outfield is one of those spots where the SF Giants could look to upgrade this offseason. However, they are reportedly not in the mix for top power-hitting outfielder Anthony Santander according to Héctor Gómez of Z101 Digital.

SF Giants reportedly not in the mix for top power-hitting corner outfielder

Gómez lists the Toronto Blue Jays as the frontrunners for Santander. The Los Angeles Angels, Detroit Tigers, Houston Astros, New York Mets, and Baltimore Orioles are also listed as among the teams that have shown interest in the free-agent outfielder.

While many of the top free agents have signed, it is a little surprising to see Santander still on the market. That said, there appears to be no shortage of interest.

The eight-year veteran is coming off of an excellent 2024 campaign in which he slashed .235/.308/.506 (129 wRC+) with 44 home runs, 102 RBI, and 91 runs in 665 plate appearances. This includes an 8.7 percent walk rate, 19.4 strikeout rate, and .271 ISO.

The Orioles issued Santander a qualifying offer that he rejected. Any team that signs him besides the Orioles would stand to lose at least one draft pick and bonus pool money in international free agency. For the Giants, they crossed the $237 Competitive Balance Tax (CBT) in 2024, so the penalty is a bit harsher. They have already forfeited their second and fifth-highest selections and $1 million in bonus pool money in international free agency after signing Willy Adames. The penalty would be the same for Santander.

The Giants will start next season with Heliot Ramos and Mike Yastrzemski in the corners. Ramos made the NL All-Star team last year, whereas Yastrzmeski continues to provide value on both sides of the ball. That said, the Giants could look to upgrade at least one corner outfield spot, likely moving Yastrzemski to a fourth-outfielder role if not traded.

Santander would bring a nice blend of contact and power to the lineup that still needs at least one more reliable bat. The veteran outfielder has seen his defensive metrics decline in recent seasons and he could shift to first base or DH down the road. Admittedly, there would be some level of concern with a player like Santander with a career .307 on-base percentage. If that number regresses any further, the switch-hitter would need to continue hitting for a lot of power to make up for a lack of reaching base.

While the Giants have a need for a corner outfielder, they are reportedly not in the mix for Santander. That is one market that they might observe from the sidelines.