Possible targets for S.F. to ponder
Tampering rules prevent the Giants from discussing specific names, but by consensus among a number of sources, these are some potential targets for the offseason, going into 2018: Giancarlo Stanton: His power-hitting presence would change everything in the Giants’ lineup, and they contacted the Marlins as soon as it became evident they might trade him. His contract is worth some $290 million through 2028, and that would place a financial burden on the Giants for years to come. They’re also likely to be outbid by teams with more attractive prospects and veterans. But the Giants will take a shot. Shohei Otani: At 23, he is a rock-star revelation in Japan — the best pitcher hitter in that country. Batting lefty, he has belted 500-foot home runs. Throwing right-handed, he has reached 102 mph on the radar gun. He hasn’t confirmed reports that he wants to join the major leagues next year. Financially, it would cost him dearly; if he were to wait two years, he could sign a free-agent contract in the $200 million range.
For this coming season, teams would have to pay a $20 million posting fee, and he likely would play for the minimum salary around $545,000. For the actual signing, teams have about a $10 million limit for international spending. The Giants have only $300,000 at their disposal (having surpassed their international limit in 2015), compared with $3 million-$4 million for a few other clubs. But that’s chump change. Otani is likely to choose the setting he most prefers, money aside. In the American League, he could fit into a designatedhitter slot on the days he doesn’t pitch. But San Francisco can’t be ruled out altogether. J.D. Martinez, free-agent outfielder: He has said he’d love to return to Arizona, but things can change over the winter. The Giants know they can’t come back with Hunter Pence as an everyday right fielder, and that’s Martinez’s position. Spacious AT&T Park poses a significant obstacle, but they’ll take a serious run. (A number of other powerhitting free agents, including Justin Upton, Jay Bruce and Carlos Gonzalez, aren’t likely to be interested.) Mike Moustakas, free-agent third baseman: Power hitting doesn’t define his game. He’s a gritty, all-around player who would improve the Giants in every respect at this position. Todd Frazier, free-agent third baseman: He has grown accustomed to putting up big power numbers. Definitely worth a look, but probably destined to wind up elsewhere. Lorenzo Cain, free-agent outfielder: Apparently set on leaving Kansas City, he’s not a long-term option at 31, but he’s a brilliant center fielder and .300-caliber hitter. The AT&T dimensions wouldn’t bother him that much. And he’d make a world of difference.