The San Francisco Giants are in a tough spot, with a struggling offense and a pitching staff that's not living up to expectations. The team's record of 15-24 puts them in a tie with the Mets for the worst in the National League. The Giants' offense has been a major disappointment, with a collective wRC+ of 81, the lowest in the Majors. However, there are some glimmers of hope amidst the gloom. One such player is Casey Schmitt, who has been a standout performer with a 144 wRC+ in just 129 plate appearances. Schmitt's versatility is a key asset, as he's been taking outfield reps during batting practice, showcasing his athleticism and potential to be a utility player. His sprint speed and arm strength make him a valuable addition to the team's defensive options.
The Giants' outfield situation is a concern, with Heliot Ramos, Drew Gilbert, and Jung Hoo Lee all struggling. Ramos has an impressive .368 average on balls in play, but his overall wRC+ is only 100. Gilbert, a first-round draft pick, has yet to live up to expectations in the Majors. The return of Harrison Bader, who missed time due to injury, could provide a boost. Bader had a career-best season in 2025, with a 122 wRC+, but his performance may have been luck-driven, as indicated by his high BABIP and low exit velocity. The Giants would be content with Bader as an average hitter, which is a significant improvement on their current outfield.
The Giants' pitching staff has an ERA of 3.85, but their fWAR of 0.1 places them in the bottom ten. Sam Hentges, a reliever, is set to return from injury, and his ability to generate groundballs and regain his velocity will be crucial to the team's success. The Giants' offense and pitching staff need to step up their game if they want to improve their record and avoid the bottom of the league. With a mix of young talent and experienced players, the Giants have the potential to turn things around, but it will take consistent performance and strategic decision-making to achieve their goals.
