The SF Giants released their list of non-roster invites to spring training. While young prospects like Bryce Eldridge and Carson Whisenhunt made the headlines, there are some sneakier players who could actually snag a roster spot.
The full list of non-roster invites can be viewed here. Eldridge is definitely the name that stands out, but he will almost certainly not break camp with the Giants. These players could join the Giants on Opening Day in Cincinnati, though.
3 non-roster invites who could snag a spot on SF Giants
Max Stassi
Patrick Bailey is the undisputed starting catcher for the Giants. Even if he can run cold at the plate for long stretches, he more than makes up for it with his Gold Glove-caliber defense behind the plate. However, there could be a bit of a competition for the backup catcher spot.
While Tom Murphy is the favorite for the spot, he hardly played at all last season due to a knee injury suffered early on. When he was on the field, he did not inspire much confidence with his play. He only appeared in 13 games, but he slashed .118/.211/.235 with one home run and two RBI.
That is where Max Stassi comes in. The Giants signed him in November to add some catching depth. He does not have a ton of offensive value and has not appeared in the big leagues since 2022, but he is strong defensively behind the plate. Look for him to challenge Murphy for the backup catcher role.
Jake Lamb
The Giants signed former All-Star Jake Lamb recently. Our own Jeff Young broke down his chances for making the Opening Day roster. While his odds are not great, we must remember that the two players ahead of him on the depth chart at first base, Wilmer Flores and LaMonte Wade Jr., both have lengthy injury histories.
Obviously no one hopes for an injury, but if one of them pulls a hamstring lake in spring training then Lamb would be the next man up at first base. He could also have a hot spring with the bat and earn a spot, but an injury could open the door as well.
Raymond Burgos
After the Giants decided to trade left-handed reliever Taylor Rogers to the Reds, there could be a competition among left-handed relievers in camp for a spot in the bullpen alongside Erik Miller as the other left-handed option in the bullpen.
While veteran lefty Joey Lucchesi may have the upper hand going into camp, do not sleep on Raymond Burgos. The 26-year-old made his MLB debut last season and only appeared in one game, but he had an impressive 1.69 ERA in 26 and 2/3 innings pitched in Triple-A last season. He could definitely snag a spot on the roster as manager Bob Melvin's low-leverage left-handed option in the bullpen.
Keep an eye on these sneakier non-roster invites in spring training.