Struggling SF Giants veteran dodges a major bullet with latest roster move

The SF Giants demoted the young outfielder Luis Matos to make room for Jerar Encarnacion as he returns from injury. Struggling first baseman LaMonte Wade Jr. dodged a major bullet as he could have been DFA'd to make room on the roster.

Wade is really struggling on the season as he is slashing .167/.275/.271 with one home run and 15 runs batted in. It has seemed for some time like the Giants are coming to a crossroads with him, but for now he has escaped being let go.

SF Giants veteran LaMonte Wade Jr. avoids getting cut with latest roster move

This does not mean Wade should feel his roster spot is safe by any means. His future is still unclear and he is going to have to turn things around soon if he wants to remain on the team.

San Francisco has exhibited a lot of patience this year with players who are struggling. Whether it has been rotation arms like Landen Roupp or position players like Tyler Fitzgerald, the team has not pulled the plug even when things have been tough for their players.

This speaks to president of baseball operations Buster Posey's approach in his first year on the job. As a former player, he understands how hard the game can be at times and that sometimes it takes time for a guy to work through a slump. Showing that confidence in a player can be a huge boost especially as they are struggling.

Perhaps this show of confidence in Wade can inspire him to turn things around at the plate. Unfortunately, Wade was hit by a pitch in his hand in last night's game and he had to be removed. One hopes it is not a serious issue, but Wade was struggling bad enough without a bad bruise on his hand.

We know that Wade can be a solid player when he is right. He has a great eye at the plate and can get on base at a high rate. He has also been known to deliver clutch late-inning hits although those days seem farther and farther away.

If he continues to struggle, it will be tough to justify keeping him on the roster. However, maybe this small show of faith in him can help him get back to being the solid player we have seen in the past.