The San Francisco Giants, currently more than 20 games out of first place, are bracing for an active Major League Baseball trade deadline. As the Aug. 3 deadline approaches, the team is expected to subtract integral players from its roster due to its distant standing in playoff contention.
Manager Tony Vitello has noted the difference in professionalism between college and professional baseball, particularly when delivering difficult news about transactions. He described it as a business aspect that becomes part of the routine for players and staff.
President of Baseball Operations Buster Posey and the front office will navigate these decisions as one of only six teams more than four games out of a playoff spot. FanGraphs has placed the Giants' playoff odds at a mere 0.5%.
Players Most Likely to be Dealt
Pitchers Robbie Ray and second baseman Luis Arraez are considered virtually certain to be traded. Both players are set to become free agents after this season, making their departure a foregone conclusion. Arraez has reportedly revived his career defensively, making him a coveted offensive upgrade for second base. Ray, a former Cy Young winner, has posted a strong ERA since late May and could be a valuable addition to a playoff-bound team's rotation.
Potential Trade Candidates
Pitching depth and bullpen assistance are always in demand, positioning pitchers like Tyler Mahle, Adrian Houser, JT Brubaker, Sam Hentges, and Jason Foley as potential trade pieces. Mahle, under contract only for the remainder of the current season, is a more likely candidate than Houser, who has a contract extending into 2027. Brubaker is also a pending free agent, while Hentges and Foley might be dealt as they head towards arbitration hearings, potentially offering a midseason boost to another team's bullpen.
Infielders with Contractual Hurdles
Infielders Willy Adames, Rafael Devers, and Matt Chapman present a different challenge due to their significant remaining contracts. While the Giants have reportedly been open to trading them, finding interested partners willing to absorb their salaries is difficult. Devers is owed substantial money through 2033, Adames through 2031, and Chapman has several years and significant money remaining on his deal. Adames and Chapman have indicated they have not been approached about waiving their no-trade clauses, suggesting trade talks remain unlikely.
Other Players Available for the Right Offer
Heliot Ramos, Casey Schmitt, Keaton Winn, Caleb Kilian, and Erik Miller could be considered for trades, particularly if the team decides against moving the aforementioned infielders. Ramos and Schmitt might be attractive due to their potential and team control, especially if playing time is limited in San Francisco. The group of relievers, with Miller being the only one approaching arbitration, could also command interest from teams seeking late-inning help.
Players Unlikely to be Traded
Outfielder Jung Hoo Lee and ace pitcher Logan Webb are considered unlikely to be traded. Lee is a popular player with international appeal, and Webb is viewed as the team's cornerstone. President of Baseball Operations Buster Posey has explicitly stated that Webb is not available, even in a complete rebuild scenario. The team also aims to extend Webb's contract and is committed to Bryce Eldridge, a highly regarded prospect, indicating a desire to build around young talent for the future.