World Series champion officially announced as one of three changes to SF Giants front office

On Friday, the SF Giants announced a trio of changes to the front office. Javier López and Curt Casali have been hired as advisors to baseball operations. Additionally, Paul Bien was been elevated to assistant general manager.

World Series champion officially announced as one of three changes to SF Giants front office

According to the press release, Bien had served as vice president in baseball analytics over the past four seasons. He will continue to oversee baseball analytics following his promotion.

A move like this usually happens for one of two reasons. The first is to recognize and expand a person's role with the organization. Promoting Bien to assistant general manager will blend analytics with player acquisitions.

Another reason is if a person is in demand by other teams. A promotion is done to retain that person in a more impactful role.

The other changes to the front office include a pair of former players. Curt Casali appeared in 11 major league seasons, including three years with the Giants. His final season in the majors came in a Giants uniform in 2024.

Casali caught on with the Atlanta Braves during spring training last year, but did not make the club and was subsequently released. He quietly retired and moved to a front office role with the Cincinnati Reds last season.

Lastly, Javier López will work as an advisor on the pitching side. The southpaw pitcher appeared in 14 seasons, including seven years with the Giants. During his time with San Francisco, he became one of Bruce Bochy's most trusted relievers, especially against left-handed hitters.

Speaking of Bochy, he shared his thoughts about López joining the front office to Justice delos Santos of The Mercury News.

López formed the Core Four, along with Santiago Casilla, Jeremy Affeldt, and Sergio Romo during the championship run. They played a critical role in the Giants' playoff success. López posted a 3.48 career ERA and was voted as the Willie Mac Award winner in 2016. That proved to be his final year in the majors.

In retirement, López moved to the broadcast booth and become a welcomed addition to that team. López told the Splash Hit Territory Podcast that he will continue to serve as a voice for Giants broadcasts, and that they are still finalizing those plans.