[Giants]

I think Villar is the key to the puzzle.  If he gets off to a hot start, he would lock up 3B enabling the team to focus on 1B.  If he gets off to a slow start, he could be sent to Sacramento since he has an option left.  This would create an opening for Diaz or Wisley and a Davis/Flores to 3B move which in turn would scramble plans for 1B.  In other words, everything is fluid meaning (I hope not) the possibility of lots of shuffling/platooning.

[Giants]

I think Villar is the key to the puzzle.  If he gets off to a hot start, he would lock up 3B enabling the team to focus on 1B.  If he gets off to a slow start, he could be sent to Sacramento since he has an option left.  This would create an opening for Diaz or Wisley and a Davis/Flores to 3B move which in turn would scramble plans for 1B.  In other words, everything is fluid meaning (I hope not) the possibility of lots of shuffling/platooning.

[Mick]

Schmitt is an interesting player as well. Won a minor league gold glove at 3B, he's also an accomplished shortstop. He hit .909 OPS in AA Richmond, a pitcher's league. He actually hit better in AA than in high A, and hit better in AAA than in AA. Similarly, it will be interesting to see if Bailey hits well solely from the left side (I assume the Giants will get him to stop switch-hitting, he's atrocious from the right side).

---

Spring training is upon us! I think the main battles for non-pitchers will be catcher and first base.

Nice analysis on 1B, Lex. I'm very concerned about catcher. It was pretty clear that Rodon and Webb preferred pitching to Austin Wynns over Joey Bart last year. That's not a good sign. And the public pronouncement that the catching spot is a competition, and that Bart is at the same level as the others...well, those two facts speak volumes, but not as much as their first round selection of Patrick Bailey. That simply screamed that Bart would never develop. My take is that Bart hasn't developed and won't develop...not in the field, not at bat, and not as a handler of pitchers. If Perez can recapture a fraction of his former self, great. Webb prefers Wynns, and the third option is supposed to stay on the roster all year. I figure Bart will be the odd man out, unless he cuts his strikeouts by 2/3rds and the pitchers rave about him, and he hits like he did in August.  Otherwise, it's Perez until he gets hurt (he's 34, has only played more than 100 games once in his career, and has played between 21 and 44 games in the last three years. So...yeah, the IL is in his very near future), Wynns (a right handed hitter who kills it against righties) and Sabol.

[Mick]

Schmitt is an interesting player as well. Won a minor league gold glove at 3B, he's also an accomplished shortstop. He hit .909 OPS in AA Richmond, a pitcher's league. He actually hit better in AA than in high A, and hit better in AAA than in AA. Similarly, it will be interesting to see if Bailey hits well solely from the left side (I assume the Giants will get him to stop switch-hitting, he's atrocious from the right side).

---

Spring training is upon us! I think the main battles for non-pitchers will be catcher and first base.

Nice analysis on 1B, Lex. I'm very concerned about catcher. It was pretty clear that Rodon and Webb preferred pitching to Austin Wynns over Joey Bart last year. That's not a good sign. And the public pronouncement that the catching spot is a competition, and that Bart is at the same level as the others...well, those two facts speak volumes, but not as much as their first round selection of Patrick Bailey. That simply screamed that Bart would never develop. My take is that Bart hasn't developed and won't develop...not in the field, not at bat, and not as a handler of pitchers. If Perez can recapture a fraction of his former self, great. Webb prefers Wynns, and the third option is supposed to stay on the roster all year. I figure Bart will be the odd man out, unless he cuts his strikeouts by 2/3rds and the pitchers rave about him, and he hits like he did in August.  Otherwise, it's Perez until he gets hurt (he's 34, has only played more than 100 games once in his career, and has played between 21 and 44 games in the last three years. So...yeah, the IL is in his very near future), Wynns (a right handed hitter who kills it against righties) and Sabol.

[lex24]

Schmitt is an interesting player as well. Won a minor league gold glove at 3B, he's also an accomplished shortstop. He hit .909 OPS in AA Richmond, a pitcher's league. He actually hit better in AA than in high A, and hit better in AAA than in AA. Similarly, it will be interesting to see if Bailey hits well solely from the left side (I assume the Giants will get him to stop switch-hitting, he's atrocious from the right side).

---

Spring training is upon us! I think the main battles for non-pitchers will be catcher and first base.

Nice analysis on 1B, Lex. I'm very concerned about catcher. It was pretty clear that Rodon and Webb preferred pitching to Austin Wynns over Joey Bart last year. That's not a good sign. And the public pronouncement that the catching spot is a competition, and that Bart is at the same level as the others...well, those two facts speak volumes, but not as much as their first round selection of Patrick Bailey. That simply screamed that Bart would never develop. My take is that Bart hasn't developed and won't develop...not in the field, not at bat, and not as a handler of pitchers. If Perez can recapture a fraction of his former self, great. Webb prefers Wynns, and the third option is supposed to stay on the roster all year. I figure Bart will be the odd man out, unless he cuts his strikeouts by 2/3rds and the pitchers rave about him, and he hits like he did in August.  Otherwise, it's Perez until he gets hurt (he's 34, has only played more than 100 games once in his career, and has played between 21 and 44 games in the last three years. So...yeah, the IL is in his very near future), Wynns (a right handed hitter who kills it against righties) and Sabol.

Doesn’t help when your manager throws you under a bus.  Kapler bugs me.  Just don’t like him.  But I get the feeling he likes himself enough for the both of us.

[lex24]

Schmitt is an interesting player as well. Won a minor league gold glove at 3B, he's also an accomplished shortstop. He hit .909 OPS in AA Richmond, a pitcher's league. He actually hit better in AA than in high A, and hit better in AAA than in AA. Similarly, it will be interesting to see if Bailey hits well solely from the left side (I assume the Giants will get him to stop switch-hitting, he's atrocious from the right side).

---

Spring training is upon us! I think the main battles for non-pitchers will be catcher and first base.

Nice analysis on 1B, Lex. I'm very concerned about catcher. It was pretty clear that Rodon and Webb preferred pitching to Austin Wynns over Joey Bart last year. That's not a good sign. And the public pronouncement that the catching spot is a competition, and that Bart is at the same level as the others...well, those two facts speak volumes, but not as much as their first round selection of Patrick Bailey. That simply screamed that Bart would never develop. My take is that Bart hasn't developed and won't develop...not in the field, not at bat, and not as a handler of pitchers. If Perez can recapture a fraction of his former self, great. Webb prefers Wynns, and the third option is supposed to stay on the roster all year. I figure Bart will be the odd man out, unless he cuts his strikeouts by 2/3rds and the pitchers rave about him, and he hits like he did in August.  Otherwise, it's Perez until he gets hurt (he's 34, has only played more than 100 games once in his career, and has played between 21 and 44 games in the last three years. So...yeah, the IL is in his very near future), Wynns (a right handed hitter who kills it against righties) and Sabol.

Doesn’t help when your manager throws you under a bus.  Kapler bugs me.  Just don’t like him.  But I get the feeling he likes himself enough for the both of us.

[lex24]

I think Villar is the key to the puzzle.  If he gets off to a hot start, he would lock up 3B enabling the team to focus on 1B.  If he gets off to a slow start, he could be sent to Sacramento since he has an option left.  This would create an opening for Diaz or Wisley and a Davis/Flores to 3B move which in turn would scramble plans for 1B.  In other words, everything is fluid meaning (I hope not) the possibility of lots of shuffling/platooning.

Davis at third is a scary thought.  He is awful at third defensively.  I believe Wisely and Diaz both play some third.  Neither, unfortunately, play SS. 

I fully expect a lot of shuffling (aka The Churn) and platooning. It’s what they do. If Crawford was coming up under this regime, they’d have turned  him into a platoon utility infielder.  If they considered him at all.  I’ve seen nothing that suggests this regime values defense.  They pay lip service to it.  And then they stick Germain Mercedes in left. Cause he had great minor league numbers vs left handers.

---

What if Harrison rips it up this spring. And shows, unequivocally, that he’s ready. Do they really have to send him to AAA just because they don’t like skipping levels? Process is important. No question. But so is the ability to recognize that there are times that the talent exceeds the process. 

Just for kicks - let’s say Harrison kills it, DeSclafani looks good and Webb, Cobb, Manaea Stripling and Wood all are healthy. 

Two options emerge. First, you have a potential trade chip - Wood being the best possibility. Or you have a five man with Wood and Disco able to provide multiple innings in relief. After all, 5 inning starts are the norm. Harrison early wouldn’t give you more than 5. 

SP. Webb. Cobb Manaea Stripling Harrison

Pen. Wood Disco, Junis Brebbia, Alexander Rogers Rogers Doval. (Jackson won’t be ready at start) 

That gives you 3 long options. Which saves wear and tear on the high leverage relievers. 

Another aspect of this - Harrison will have a limit on his innings. Maybe 125? If ready out the gate, I’d rather get those in SF

[lex24]

I think Villar is the key to the puzzle.  If he gets off to a hot start, he would lock up 3B enabling the team to focus on 1B.  If he gets off to a slow start, he could be sent to Sacramento since he has an option left.  This would create an opening for Diaz or Wisley and a Davis/Flores to 3B move which in turn would scramble plans for 1B.  In other words, everything is fluid meaning (I hope not) the possibility of lots of shuffling/platooning.

Davis at third is a scary thought.  He is awful at third defensively.  I believe Wisely and Diaz both play some third.  Neither, unfortunately, play SS. 

I fully expect a lot of shuffling (aka The Churn) and platooning. It’s what they do. If Crawford was coming up under this regime, they’d have turned  him into a platoon utility infielder.  If they considered him at all.  I’ve seen nothing that suggests this regime values defense.  They pay lip service to it.  And then they stick Germain Mercedes in left. Cause he had great minor league numbers vs left handers.

---

What if Harrison rips it up this spring. And shows, unequivocally, that he’s ready. Do they really have to send him to AAA just because they don’t like skipping levels? Process is important. No question. But so is the ability to recognize that there are times that the talent exceeds the process. 

Just for kicks - let’s say Harrison kills it, DeSclafani looks good and Webb, Cobb, Manaea Stripling and Wood all are healthy. 

Two options emerge. First, you have a potential trade chip - Wood being the best possibility. Or you have a five man with Wood and Disco able to provide multiple innings in relief. After all, 5 inning starts are the norm. Harrison early wouldn’t give you more than 5. 

SP. Webb. Cobb Manaea Stripling Harrison

Pen. Wood Disco, Junis Brebbia, Alexander Rogers Rogers Doval. (Jackson won’t be ready at start) 

That gives you 3 long options. Which saves wear and tear on the high leverage relievers. 

Another aspect of this - Harrison will have a limit on his innings. Maybe 125? If ready out the gate, I’d rather get those in SF

[Mick]

[quote="Giants" pid='382728' dateline='1676836248']
I think Villar is the key to the puzzle.  If he gets off to a hot start, he would lock up 3B enabling the team to focus on 1B.  If he gets off to a slow start, he could be sent to Sacramento since he has an option left.  This would create an opening for Diaz or Wisley and a Davis/Flores to 3B move which in turn would scramble plans for 1B.  In other words, everything is fluid meaning (I hope not) the possibility of lots of shuffling/platooning.

Davis at third is a scary thought.  He is awful at third defensively.  I believe Wisely and Diaz both play some third.  Neither, unfortunately, play SS. 

Yeah, he's deadly and not in a good way. I still wonder if we'll see Schmitt before long.

I fully expect a lot of shuffling (aka The Churn) and platooning. It’s what they do. If Crawford was coming up under this regime, they’d have turned  him into a platoon utility infielder.  If they considered him at all.  I’ve seen nothing that suggests this regime values defense.  They pay lip service to it.  And then they stick Germain Mercedes in left. Cause he had great minor league numbers vs left handers.

I wonder about that. They were 5th in MLB and 2nd in the NL in RTot in 2021. I don't think that happened by accident. I think part of their problem last year was that they didn't have full spring training, and didn't get the reps they needed. 

What if Harrison rips it up this spring. And shows, unequivocally, that he’s ready. Do they really have to send him to AAA just because they don’t like skipping levels? Process is important. No question. But so is the ability to recognize that there are times that the talent exceeds the process. 

Two options emerge. First, you have a potential trade chip - Wood being the best possibility. Or you have a five man with Wood and Disco able to provide multiple innings in relief. After all, 5 inning starts are the norm. Harrison early wouldn’t give you more than 5. 

SP. Webb. Cobb Manaea Stripling Harrison

Pen. Wood Disco, Junis Brebbia, Alexander Rogers Rogers Doval. (Jackson won’t be ready at start) 

That gives you 3 long options. Which saves wear and tear on the high leverage relievers. 

Another aspect of this - Harrison will have a limit on his innings. Maybe 125? If ready out the gate, I’d rather get those in SF

Just for kicks - let’s say Harrison kills it, DeSclafani looks good and Webb, Cobb, Manaea Stripling and Wood all are healthy. 

I think he makes it only if (a) he absolutely destroys the cactus league with very good command and (b) at least 2-3 of the other 6/7/8 starters stink.

They'll also want to limit him to 125 innings or so. He's 21, you could really destroy his arm. He threw 113 innings last year and 99 the year before. I'd say 125 to 140 would be his top end this year. So if the first two conditions are satisfied and the Giants have four or fewer healthy, effective arms, then Harrison gets brought up.

---

ZiPS, known for their accurate computer models predicting MLB standings (among other things) currently project the SF Giants to have the sixth playoff spot. Specifically, here are their projected win totals for 2023:

Mets, 94 wins
Braves, 94 wins
Cardinals, 91 wins

Dodgers, 91 wins
Padres, 91 wins
Giants, 88 wins
Phillies, 85 wins
Brewers, 83 wins
Diamondbacks, 81 wins.

No other team projected at more than 78 wins.
The 2023 Start of Spring ZiPS Projected Standings: National League | FanGraphs Baseball

They were fairly accurate in 2022, at least in order. Their projected teams finished (in order), 1, 2, 5, 3, 4, 7, 8, 6.  The Giants were the team that underperformed the most.
https://blogs.fangraphs.com/looking-back...ojections/

FanGraphs thinks Stanford's very own Austin Slater is the best role player in baseball. Slater's pinch-hit OPS is the best in MLB history (1.025) much better than Ted Williams' puny .953, or Albert Pujols' .948 -- and the article points out that he's a better fielder than you might think, tying a Gold Glove winner in a range metric:
Austin Slater, the Best Role Player in Baseball | FanGraphs Baseball

Former first round picks Chris Shaw and Kyle Crick are signing minor league deals with the White Sox and Rays, respectively.  The Reds want Cueto back.

On the other hand, PECOTA says 82 wins.

PECOTA projected standings paints different picture than ZiPS for SF Giants fans (aroundthefoghorn.com)

[Mick]

[quote="Giants" pid='382728' dateline='1676836248']
I think Villar is the key to the puzzle.  If he gets off to a hot start, he would lock up 3B enabling the team to focus on 1B.  If he gets off to a slow start, he could be sent to Sacramento since he has an option left.  This would create an opening for Diaz or Wisley and a Davis/Flores to 3B move which in turn would scramble plans for 1B.  In other words, everything is fluid meaning (I hope not) the possibility of lots of shuffling/platooning.

Davis at third is a scary thought.  He is awful at third defensively.  I believe Wisely and Diaz both play some third.  Neither, unfortunately, play SS. 

Yeah, he's deadly and not in a good way. I still wonder if we'll see Schmitt before long.

I fully expect a lot of shuffling (aka The Churn) and platooning. It’s what they do. If Crawford was coming up under this regime, they’d have turned  him into a platoon utility infielder.  If they considered him at all.  I’ve seen nothing that suggests this regime values defense.  They pay lip service to it.  And then they stick Germain Mercedes in left. Cause he had great minor league numbers vs left handers.

I wonder about that. They were 5th in MLB and 2nd in the NL in RTot in 2021. I don't think that happened by accident. I think part of their problem last year was that they didn't have full spring training, and didn't get the reps they needed. 

What if Harrison rips it up this spring. And shows, unequivocally, that he’s ready. Do they really have to send him to AAA just because they don’t like skipping levels? Process is important. No question. But so is the ability to recognize that there are times that the talent exceeds the process. 

Two options emerge. First, you have a potential trade chip - Wood being the best possibility. Or you have a five man with Wood and Disco able to provide multiple innings in relief. After all, 5 inning starts are the norm. Harrison early wouldn’t give you more than 5. 

SP. Webb. Cobb Manaea Stripling Harrison

Pen. Wood Disco, Junis Brebbia, Alexander Rogers Rogers Doval. (Jackson won’t be ready at start) 

That gives you 3 long options. Which saves wear and tear on the high leverage relievers. 

Another aspect of this - Harrison will have a limit on his innings. Maybe 125? If ready out the gate, I’d rather get those in SF

Just for kicks - let’s say Harrison kills it, DeSclafani looks good and Webb, Cobb, Manaea Stripling and Wood all are healthy. 

I think he makes it only if (a) he absolutely destroys the cactus league with very good command and (b) at least 2-3 of the other 6/7/8 starters stink.

They'll also want to limit him to 125 innings or so. He's 21, you could really destroy his arm. He threw 113 innings last year and 99 the year before. I'd say 125 to 140 would be his top end this year. So if the first two conditions are satisfied and the Giants have four or fewer healthy, effective arms, then Harrison gets brought up.

---

ZiPS, known for their accurate computer models predicting MLB standings (among other things) currently project the SF Giants to have the sixth playoff spot. Specifically, here are their projected win totals for 2023:

Mets, 94 wins
Braves, 94 wins
Cardinals, 91 wins

Dodgers, 91 wins
Padres, 91 wins
Giants, 88 wins
Phillies, 85 wins
Brewers, 83 wins
Diamondbacks, 81 wins.

No other team projected at more than 78 wins.
The 2023 Start of Spring ZiPS Projected Standings: National League | FanGraphs Baseball

They were fairly accurate in 2022, at least in order. Their projected teams finished (in order), 1, 2, 5, 3, 4, 7, 8, 6.  The Giants were the team that underperformed the most.
https://blogs.fangraphs.com/looking-back...ojections/

FanGraphs thinks Stanford's very own Austin Slater is the best role player in baseball. Slater's pinch-hit OPS is the best in MLB history (1.025) much better than Ted Williams' puny .953, or Albert Pujols' .948 -- and the article points out that he's a better fielder than you might think, tying a Gold Glove winner in a range metric:
Austin Slater, the Best Role Player in Baseball | FanGraphs Baseball

Former first round picks Chris Shaw and Kyle Crick are signing minor league deals with the White Sox and Rays, respectively.  The Reds want Cueto back.

On the other hand, PECOTA says 82 wins.

PECOTA projected standings paints different picture than ZiPS for SF Giants fans (aroundthefoghorn.com)

[Giants]

[quote="Giants" pid='382728' dateline='1676836248']
I think Villar is the key to the puzzle.  If he gets off to a hot start, he would lock up 3B enabling the team to focus on 1B.  If he gets off to a slow start, he could be sent to Sacramento since he has an option left.  This would create an opening for Diaz or Wisley and a Davis/Flores to 3B move which in turn would scramble plans for 1B.  In other words, everything is fluid meaning (I hope not) the possibility of lots of shuffling/platooning.

Davis at third is a scary thought.  He is awful at third defensively.  I believe Wisely and Diaz both play some third.  Neither, unfortunately, play SS. 

Yeah, he's deadly and not in a good way. I still wonder if we'll see Schmitt before long.

I fully expect a lot of shuffling (aka The Churn) and platooning. It’s what they do. If Crawford was coming up under this regime, they’d have turned  him into a platoon utility infielder.  If they considered him at all.  I’ve seen nothing that suggests this regime values defense.  They pay lip service to it.  And then they stick Germain Mercedes in left. Cause he had great minor league numbers vs left handers.

I wonder about that. They were 5th in MLB and 2nd in the NL in RTot in 2021. I don't think that happened by accident. I think part of their problem last year was that they didn't have full spring training, and didn't get the reps they needed. 

What if Harrison rips it up this spring. And shows, unequivocally, that he’s ready. Do they really have to send him to AAA just because they don’t like skipping levels? Process is important. No question. But so is the ability to recognize that there are times that the talent exceeds the process. 

Two options emerge. First, you have a potential trade chip - Wood being the best possibility. Or you have a five man with Wood and Disco able to provide multiple innings in relief. After all, 5 inning starts are the norm. Harrison early wouldn’t give you more than 5. 

SP. Webb. Cobb Manaea Stripling Harrison

Pen. Wood Disco, Junis Brebbia, Alexander Rogers Rogers Doval. (Jackson won’t be ready at start) 

That gives you 3 long options. Which saves wear and tear on the high leverage relievers. 

Another aspect of this - Harrison will have a limit on his innings. Maybe 125? If ready out the gate, I’d rather get those in SF

Just for kicks - let’s say Harrison kills it, DeSclafani looks good and Webb, Cobb, Manaea Stripling and Wood all are healthy. 

I think he makes it only if (a) he absolutely destroys the cactus league with very good command and (b) at least 2-3 of the other 6/7/8 starters stink.

They'll also want to limit him to 125 innings or so. He's 21, you could really destroy his arm. He threw 113 innings last year and 99 the year before. I'd say 125 to 140 would be his top end this year. So if the first two conditions are satisfied and the Giants have four or fewer healthy, effective arms, then Harrison gets brought up.

---

ZiPS, known for their accurate computer models predicting MLB standings (among other things) currently project the SF Giants to have the sixth playoff spot. Specifically, here are their projected win totals for 2023:

Mets, 94 wins
Braves, 94 wins
Cardinals, 91 wins

Dodgers, 91 wins
Padres, 91 wins
Giants, 88 wins
Phillies, 85 wins
Brewers, 83 wins
Diamondbacks, 81 wins.

No other team projected at more than 78 wins.
The 2023 Start of Spring ZiPS Projected Standings: National League | FanGraphs Baseball

They were fairly accurate in 2022, at least in order. Their projected teams finished (in order), 1, 2, 5, 3, 4, 7, 8, 6.  The Giants were the team that underperformed the most.
https://blogs.fangraphs.com/looking-back...ojections/

FanGraphs thinks Stanford's very own Austin Slater is the best role player in baseball. Slater's pinch-hit OPS is the best in MLB history (1.025) much better than Ted Williams' puny .953, or Albert Pujols' .948 -- and the article points out that he's a better fielder than you might think, tying a Gold Glove winner in a range metric:
Austin Slater, the Best Role Player in Baseball | FanGraphs Baseball

Former first round picks Chris Shaw and Kyle Crick are signing minor league deals with the White Sox and Rays, respectively.  The Reds want Cueto back.

On the other hand, PECOTA says 82 wins.

PECOTA projected standings paints different picture than ZiPS for SF Giants fans (aroundthefoghorn.com)

ZIPS - Skip the season and go directly to the playoffs!

[Giants]

[quote="Giants" pid='382728' dateline='1676836248']
I think Villar is the key to the puzzle.  If he gets off to a hot start, he would lock up 3B enabling the team to focus on 1B.  If he gets off to a slow start, he could be sent to Sacramento since he has an option left.  This would create an opening for Diaz or Wisley and a Davis/Flores to 3B move which in turn would scramble plans for 1B.  In other words, everything is fluid meaning (I hope not) the possibility of lots of shuffling/platooning.

Davis at third is a scary thought.  He is awful at third defensively.  I believe Wisely and Diaz both play some third.  Neither, unfortunately, play SS. 

Yeah, he's deadly and not in a good way. I still wonder if we'll see Schmitt before long.

I fully expect a lot of shuffling (aka The Churn) and platooning. It’s what they do. If Crawford was coming up under this regime, they’d have turned  him into a platoon utility infielder.  If they considered him at all.  I’ve seen nothing that suggests this regime values defense.  They pay lip service to it.  And then they stick Germain Mercedes in left. Cause he had great minor league numbers vs left handers.

I wonder about that. They were 5th in MLB and 2nd in the NL in RTot in 2021. I don't think that happened by accident. I think part of their problem last year was that they didn't have full spring training, and didn't get the reps they needed. 

What if Harrison rips it up this spring. And shows, unequivocally, that he’s ready. Do they really have to send him to AAA just because they don’t like skipping levels? Process is important. No question. But so is the ability to recognize that there are times that the talent exceeds the process. 

Two options emerge. First, you have a potential trade chip - Wood being the best possibility. Or you have a five man with Wood and Disco able to provide multiple innings in relief. After all, 5 inning starts are the norm. Harrison early wouldn’t give you more than 5. 

SP. Webb. Cobb Manaea Stripling Harrison

Pen. Wood Disco, Junis Brebbia, Alexander Rogers Rogers Doval. (Jackson won’t be ready at start) 

That gives you 3 long options. Which saves wear and tear on the high leverage relievers. 

Another aspect of this - Harrison will have a limit on his innings. Maybe 125? If ready out the gate, I’d rather get those in SF

Just for kicks - let’s say Harrison kills it, DeSclafani looks good and Webb, Cobb, Manaea Stripling and Wood all are healthy. 

I think he makes it only if (a) he absolutely destroys the cactus league with very good command and (b) at least 2-3 of the other 6/7/8 starters stink.

They'll also want to limit him to 125 innings or so. He's 21, you could really destroy his arm. He threw 113 innings last year and 99 the year before. I'd say 125 to 140 would be his top end this year. So if the first two conditions are satisfied and the Giants have four or fewer healthy, effective arms, then Harrison gets brought up.

---

ZiPS, known for their accurate computer models predicting MLB standings (among other things) currently project the SF Giants to have the sixth playoff spot. Specifically, here are their projected win totals for 2023:

Mets, 94 wins
Braves, 94 wins
Cardinals, 91 wins

Dodgers, 91 wins
Padres, 91 wins
Giants, 88 wins
Phillies, 85 wins
Brewers, 83 wins
Diamondbacks, 81 wins.

No other team projected at more than 78 wins.
The 2023 Start of Spring ZiPS Projected Standings: National League | FanGraphs Baseball

They were fairly accurate in 2022, at least in order. Their projected teams finished (in order), 1, 2, 5, 3, 4, 7, 8, 6.  The Giants were the team that underperformed the most.
https://blogs.fangraphs.com/looking-back...ojections/

FanGraphs thinks Stanford's very own Austin Slater is the best role player in baseball. Slater's pinch-hit OPS is the best in MLB history (1.025) much better than Ted Williams' puny .953, or Albert Pujols' .948 -- and the article points out that he's a better fielder than you might think, tying a Gold Glove winner in a range metric:
Austin Slater, the Best Role Player in Baseball | FanGraphs Baseball

Former first round picks Chris Shaw and Kyle Crick are signing minor league deals with the White Sox and Rays, respectively.  The Reds want Cueto back.

On the other hand, PECOTA says 82 wins.

PECOTA projected standings paints different picture than ZiPS for SF Giants fans (aroundthefoghorn.com)

ZIPS - Skip the season and go directly to the playoffs!

[lex24]

[quote="Giants" pid='382728' dateline='1676836248']
I think Villar is the key to the puzzle.  If he gets off to a hot start, he would lock up 3B enabling the team to focus on 1B.  If he gets off to a slow start, he could be sent to Sacramento since he has an option left.  This would create an opening for Diaz or Wisley and a Davis/Flores to 3B move which in turn would scramble plans for 1B.  In other words, everything is fluid meaning (I hope not) the possibility of lots of shuffling/platooning.

Davis at third is a scary thought.  He is awful at third defensively.  I believe Wisely and Diaz both play some third.  Neither, unfortunately, play SS. 

Yeah, he's deadly and not in a good way. I still wonder if we'll see Schmitt before long.

I fully expect a lot of shuffling (aka The Churn) and platooning. It’s what they do. If Crawford was coming up under this regime, they’d have turned  him into a platoon utility infielder.  If they considered him at all.  I’ve seen nothing that suggests this regime values defense.  They pay lip service to it.  And then they stick Germain Mercedes in left. Cause he had great minor league numbers vs left handers.

I wonder about that. They were 5th in MLB and 2nd in the NL in RTot in 2021. I don't think that happened by accident. I think part of their problem last year was that they didn't have full spring training, and didn't get the reps they needed. 

What if Harrison rips it up this spring. And shows, unequivocally, that he’s ready. Do they really have to send him to AAA just because they don’t like skipping levels? Process is important. No question. But so is the ability to recognize that there are times that the talent exceeds the process. 

Two options emerge. First, you have a potential trade chip - Wood being the best possibility. Or you have a five man with Wood and Disco able to provide multiple innings in relief. After all, 5 inning starts are the norm. Harrison early wouldn’t give you more than 5. 

SP. Webb. Cobb Manaea Stripling Harrison

Pen. Wood Disco, Junis Brebbia, Alexander Rogers Rogers Doval. (Jackson won’t be ready at start) 

That gives you 3 long options. Which saves wear and tear on the high leverage relievers. 

Another aspect of this - Harrison will have a limit on his innings. Maybe 125? If ready out the gate, I’d rather get those in SF

Just for kicks - let’s say Harrison kills it, DeSclafani looks good and Webb, Cobb, Manaea Stripling and Wood all are healthy. 

I think he makes it only if (a) he absolutely destroys the cactus league with very good command and (b) at least 2-3 of the other 6/7/8 starters stink.

They'll also want to limit him to 125 innings or so. He's 21, you could really destroy his arm. He threw 113 innings last year and 99 the year before. I'd say 125 to 140 would be his top end this year. So if the first two conditions are satisfied and the Giants have four or fewer healthy, effective arms, then Harrison gets brought up.

---

ZiPS, known for their accurate computer models predicting MLB standings (among other things) currently project the SF Giants to have the sixth playoff spot. Specifically, here are their projected win totals for 2023:

Mets, 94 wins
Braves, 94 wins
Cardinals, 91 wins

Dodgers, 91 wins
Padres, 91 wins
Giants, 88 wins
Phillies, 85 wins
Brewers, 83 wins
Diamondbacks, 81 wins.

No other team projected at more than 78 wins.
The 2023 Start of Spring ZiPS Projected Standings: National League | FanGraphs Baseball

They were fairly accurate in 2022, at least in order. Their projected teams finished (in order), 1, 2, 5, 3, 4, 7, 8, 6.  The Giants were the team that underperformed the most.
https://blogs.fangraphs.com/looking-back...ojections/

FanGraphs thinks Stanford's very own Austin Slater is the best role player in baseball. Slater's pinch-hit OPS is the best in MLB history (1.025) much better than Ted Williams' puny .953, or Albert Pujols' .948 -- and the article points out that he's a better fielder than you might think, tying a Gold Glove winner in a range metric:
Austin Slater, the Best Role Player in Baseball | FanGraphs Baseball

Former first round picks Chris Shaw and Kyle Crick are signing minor league deals with the White Sox and Rays, respectively.  The Reds want Cueto back.

On the other hand, PECOTA says 82 wins.

PECOTA projected standings paints different picture than ZiPS for SF Giants fans (aroundthefoghorn.com)

ZIPS - Skip the season and go directly to the playoffs!

I mentioned the 125 inning limit for Harrison.  Which is a guess.  I’d rather those be I’m major leagues if he’s deemed ready after spring.  He’s gonna have some command issues whenever he comes up now or in August.

[lex24]

[quote="Giants" pid='382728' dateline='1676836248']
I think Villar is the key to the puzzle.  If he gets off to a hot start, he would lock up 3B enabling the team to focus on 1B.  If he gets off to a slow start, he could be sent to Sacramento since he has an option left.  This would create an opening for Diaz or Wisley and a Davis/Flores to 3B move which in turn would scramble plans for 1B.  In other words, everything is fluid meaning (I hope not) the possibility of lots of shuffling/platooning.

Davis at third is a scary thought.  He is awful at third defensively.  I believe Wisely and Diaz both play some third.  Neither, unfortunately, play SS. 

Yeah, he's deadly and not in a good way. I still wonder if we'll see Schmitt before long.

I fully expect a lot of shuffling (aka The Churn) and platooning. It’s what they do. If Crawford was coming up under this regime, they’d have turned  him into a platoon utility infielder.  If they considered him at all.  I’ve seen nothing that suggests this regime values defense.  They pay lip service to it.  And then they stick Germain Mercedes in left. Cause he had great minor league numbers vs left handers.

I wonder about that. They were 5th in MLB and 2nd in the NL in RTot in 2021. I don't think that happened by accident. I think part of their problem last year was that they didn't have full spring training, and didn't get the reps they needed. 

What if Harrison rips it up this spring. And shows, unequivocally, that he’s ready. Do they really have to send him to AAA just because they don’t like skipping levels? Process is important. No question. But so is the ability to recognize that there are times that the talent exceeds the process. 

Two options emerge. First, you have a potential trade chip - Wood being the best possibility. Or you have a five man with Wood and Disco able to provide multiple innings in relief. After all, 5 inning starts are the norm. Harrison early wouldn’t give you more than 5. 

SP. Webb. Cobb Manaea Stripling Harrison

Pen. Wood Disco, Junis Brebbia, Alexander Rogers Rogers Doval. (Jackson won’t be ready at start) 

That gives you 3 long options. Which saves wear and tear on the high leverage relievers. 

Another aspect of this - Harrison will have a limit on his innings. Maybe 125? If ready out the gate, I’d rather get those in SF

Just for kicks - let’s say Harrison kills it, DeSclafani looks good and Webb, Cobb, Manaea Stripling and Wood all are healthy. 

I think he makes it only if (a) he absolutely destroys the cactus league with very good command and (b) at least 2-3 of the other 6/7/8 starters stink.

They'll also want to limit him to 125 innings or so. He's 21, you could really destroy his arm. He threw 113 innings last year and 99 the year before. I'd say 125 to 140 would be his top end this year. So if the first two conditions are satisfied and the Giants have four or fewer healthy, effective arms, then Harrison gets brought up.

---

ZiPS, known for their accurate computer models predicting MLB standings (among other things) currently project the SF Giants to have the sixth playoff spot. Specifically, here are their projected win totals for 2023:

Mets, 94 wins
Braves, 94 wins
Cardinals, 91 wins

Dodgers, 91 wins
Padres, 91 wins
Giants, 88 wins
Phillies, 85 wins
Brewers, 83 wins
Diamondbacks, 81 wins.

No other team projected at more than 78 wins.
The 2023 Start of Spring ZiPS Projected Standings: National League | FanGraphs Baseball

They were fairly accurate in 2022, at least in order. Their projected teams finished (in order), 1, 2, 5, 3, 4, 7, 8, 6.  The Giants were the team that underperformed the most.
https://blogs.fangraphs.com/looking-back...ojections/

FanGraphs thinks Stanford's very own Austin Slater is the best role player in baseball. Slater's pinch-hit OPS is the best in MLB history (1.025) much better than Ted Williams' puny .953, or Albert Pujols' .948 -- and the article points out that he's a better fielder than you might think, tying a Gold Glove winner in a range metric:
Austin Slater, the Best Role Player in Baseball | FanGraphs Baseball

Former first round picks Chris Shaw and Kyle Crick are signing minor league deals with the White Sox and Rays, respectively.  The Reds want Cueto back.

On the other hand, PECOTA says 82 wins.

PECOTA projected standings paints different picture than ZiPS for SF Giants fans (aroundthefoghorn.com)

ZIPS - Skip the season and go directly to the playoffs!

I mentioned the 125 inning limit for Harrison.  Which is a guess.  I’d rather those be I’m major leagues if he’s deemed ready after spring.  He’s gonna have some command issues whenever he comes up now or in August.

[Mick]

Interesting article by Angelina Martin. She claims that Mike Petriello used FanGraph's WAR projections to determine the league's most improved roster. The result? Giants had the fourth best offseason (added 7.2 WAR) behind the Mets, Yankees and Rangers.

Giants greatly improved roster despite odd offseason, WAR stat shows

Petriello says that the Giants both improved the roster and had a disappointing winter. They didn't get Arson Judge and they didn't get Balsa Wood Ankles Correa, but...they built an entirely new outfield with Haniger and Conforto, they retained Joc Pederson, the reinforced their rotation with Stripling and Manaea, they had a brobdingnagian bullpen upgrade in Rogers -- Taylor, that is. And Luke Jackson, whenever he returns. And DeSclefani will return.  And Logan Webb is sharing his world class changeup grip to the entire pitching staff.  They have a few new catchers -- and just about anyone is an upgrade from Bart. Maybe Joey Bart will recapture his August, 2022 magic and be his own upgrade. They'll have Villar for the full year, and Wade and Estrada can concentrate on one position.

88+ wins...

The funny thing is that most of the Giants should have an excellent, if not full turnaround year.

[Mick]

Interesting article by Angelina Martin. She claims that Mike Petriello used FanGraph's WAR projections to determine the league's most improved roster. The result? Giants had the fourth best offseason (added 7.2 WAR) behind the Mets, Yankees and Rangers.

Giants greatly improved roster despite odd offseason, WAR stat shows

Petriello says that the Giants both improved the roster and had a disappointing winter. They didn't get Arson Judge and they didn't get Balsa Wood Ankles Correa, but...they built an entirely new outfield with Haniger and Conforto, they retained Joc Pederson, the reinforced their rotation with Stripling and Manaea, they had a brobdingnagian bullpen upgrade in Rogers -- Taylor, that is. And Luke Jackson, whenever he returns. And DeSclefani will return.  And Logan Webb is sharing his world class changeup grip to the entire pitching staff.  They have a few new catchers -- and just about anyone is an upgrade from Bart. Maybe Joey Bart will recapture his August, 2022 magic and be his own upgrade. They'll have Villar for the full year, and Wade and Estrada can concentrate on one position.

88+ wins...

The funny thing is that most of the Giants should have an excellent, if not full turnaround year.

[lex24]

Interesting article by Angelina Martin. She claims that Mike Petriello used FanGraph's WAR projections to determine the league's most improved roster. The result? Giants had the fourth best offseason (added 7.2 WAR) behind the Mets, Yankees and Rangers.

Giants greatly improved roster despite odd offseason, WAR stat shows

Petriello says that the Giants both improved the roster and had a disappointing winter. They didn't get Arson Judge and they didn't get Balsa Wood Ankles Correa, but...they built an entirely new outfield with Haniger and Conforto, they retained Joc Pederson, the reinforced their rotation with Stripling and Manaea, they had a of immense proportions bullpen upgrade in Rogers -- Taylor, that is. And Luke Jackson, whenever he returns. And DeSclefani will return.  And Logan Webb is sharing his world class changeup grip to the entire pitching staff.  They have a few new catchers -- and just about anyone is an upgrade from Bart. Maybe Joey Bart will recapture his August, 2022 magic and be his own upgrade. They'll have Villar for the full year, and Wade and Estrada can concentrate on one position.

88+ wins...

The funny thing is that most of the Giants should have an excellent, if not full turnaround year.

78.

[lex24]

Interesting article by Angelina Martin. She claims that Mike Petriello used FanGraph's WAR projections to determine the league's most improved roster. The result? Giants had the fourth best offseason (added 7.2 WAR) behind the Mets, Yankees and Rangers.

Giants greatly improved roster despite odd offseason, WAR stat shows

Petriello says that the Giants both improved the roster and had a disappointing winter. They didn't get Arson Judge and they didn't get Balsa Wood Ankles Correa, but...they built an entirely new outfield with Haniger and Conforto, they retained Joc Pederson, the reinforced their rotation with Stripling and Manaea, they had a of immense proportions bullpen upgrade in Rogers -- Taylor, that is. And Luke Jackson, whenever he returns. And DeSclefani will return.  And Logan Webb is sharing his world class changeup grip to the entire pitching staff.  They have a few new catchers -- and just about anyone is an upgrade from Bart. Maybe Joey Bart will recapture his August, 2022 magic and be his own upgrade. They'll have Villar for the full year, and Wade and Estrada can concentrate on one position.

88+ wins...

The funny thing is that most of the Giants should have an excellent, if not full turnaround year.

78.

[Mick]

Interesting article by Angelina Martin. She claims that Mike Petriello used FanGraph's WAR projections to determine the league's most improved roster. The result? Giants had the fourth best offseason (added 7.2 WAR) behind the Mets, Yankees and Rangers.

Giants greatly improved roster despite odd offseason, WAR stat shows

Petriello says that the Giants both improved the roster and had a disappointing winter. They didn't get Arson Judge and they didn't get Balsa Wood Ankles Correa, but...they built an entirely new outfield with Haniger and Conforto, they retained Joc Pederson, the reinforced their rotation with Stripling and Manaea, they had a of immense proportions bullpen upgrade in Rogers -- Taylor, that is. And Luke Jackson, whenever he returns. And DeSclefani will return.  And Logan Webb is sharing his world class changeup grip to the entire pitching staff.  They have a few new catchers -- and just about anyone is an upgrade from Bart. Maybe Joey Bart will recapture his August, 2022 magic and be his own upgrade. They'll have Villar for the full year, and Wade and Estrada can concentrate on one position.

88+ wins...

The funny thing is that most of the Giants should have an excellent, if not full turnaround year.

78.

Vegas' O/U line for Giants season wins is 88.5...

Ex-Stanford pitcher Tristan Beck is starting the opening game of the Cactus League today. Former Stanford player Austin Slater gets the start in the outfield. With two ex-Cardinals on the field, how can the Giants lose? I pity the Cubs...

[Mick]

Interesting article by Angelina Martin. She claims that Mike Petriello used FanGraph's WAR projections to determine the league's most improved roster. The result? Giants had the fourth best offseason (added 7.2 WAR) behind the Mets, Yankees and Rangers.

Giants greatly improved roster despite odd offseason, WAR stat shows

Petriello says that the Giants both improved the roster and had a disappointing winter. They didn't get Arson Judge and they didn't get Balsa Wood Ankles Correa, but...they built an entirely new outfield with Haniger and Conforto, they retained Joc Pederson, the reinforced their rotation with Stripling and Manaea, they had a of immense proportions bullpen upgrade in Rogers -- Taylor, that is. And Luke Jackson, whenever he returns. And DeSclefani will return.  And Logan Webb is sharing his world class changeup grip to the entire pitching staff.  They have a few new catchers -- and just about anyone is an upgrade from Bart. Maybe Joey Bart will recapture his August, 2022 magic and be his own upgrade. They'll have Villar for the full year, and Wade and Estrada can concentrate on one position.

88+ wins...

The funny thing is that most of the Giants should have an excellent, if not full turnaround year.

78.

Vegas' O/U line for Giants season wins is 88.5...

Ex-Stanford pitcher Tristan Beck is starting the opening game of the Cactus League today. Former Stanford player Austin Slater gets the start in the outfield. With two ex-Cardinals on the field, how can the Giants lose? I pity the Cubs...

[lex24]

Interesting article by Angelina Martin. She claims that Mike Petriello used FanGraph's WAR projections to determine the league's most improved roster. The result? Giants had the fourth best offseason (added 7.2 WAR) behind the Mets, Yankees and Rangers.

Giants greatly improved roster despite odd offseason, WAR stat shows

Petriello says that the Giants both improved the roster and had a disappointing winter. They didn't get Arson Judge and they didn't get Balsa Wood Ankles Correa, but...they built an entirely new outfield with Haniger and Conforto, they retained Joc Pederson, the reinforced their rotation with Stripling and Manaea, they had a of immense proportions bullpen upgrade in Rogers -- Taylor, that is. And Luke Jackson, whenever he returns. And DeSclefani will return.  And Logan Webb is sharing his world class changeup grip to the entire pitching staff.  They have a few new catchers -- and just about anyone is an upgrade from Bart. Maybe Joey Bart will recapture his August, 2022 magic and be his own upgrade. They'll have Villar for the full year, and Wade and Estrada can concentrate on one position.

88+ wins...

The funny thing is that most of the Giants should have an excellent, if not full turnaround year.

78.

Vegas' O/U line for Giants season wins is 88.5...

Ex-Stanford pitcher Tristan Beck is starting the opening game of the Cactus League today. Former Stanford player Austin Slater gets the start in the outfield. With two ex-Cardinals on the field, how can the Giants lose? I pity the Cubs...

Easy under…. :)

Beck might get a shot for at least a cup of coffee. Giants had something like 67 players last year. 32 of whom are no longer in the organization. I wanted him up last year, but he wasn’t on the 40. Is now. Of their starting pitchers in the minors (which now means they can go 5 on a good day) he’s behind Harrison and probably Winn. Although Harrison will be handled differently. He will get a call when they think he’s ready to stick. Beck more likely to get a call when the inevitable injuries strike and they need a guy for an emergency start. Kind of like what Hjelle has been doing.

Trades don’t happen that much in the spring. But if the Giants could trade Hjelle and another mid level prospect for a backup middle infielder that can actually field, I’d be quite happy. If he can run as well, I’d be thrilled.

Speed is, I think, coming back as an element of the game. At least I hope….

Speaking of speed - Padres 2 hours 29 min.  Rangers 2 hours 33 min.  Pitch clock is going to make a big difference.  It will be nice for the Giants game to be over by 9:30 instead of 10:15. Those late games are rough. Especially when they blow it and I keep running it through my mind. Silly I know.

My guess is the clock impacts relievers that throw gas the most. Doval has mentioned it. Not easy to throw 102 and quickly repeat. That is going to be good for the game. Controlling injuries to pitchers going to be even more important. One possible impact ( down the road) might be the return of pitchers. You remember them. Guys that changed speeds, hit targets, in/out, up/down, worked fast, used their defense. Could get through 7 . I’m hopeful.

Someone mentioned Rick Reuschel the other day. Loved to watch him. He’d just pump fastballs - varying the speed, and movement and location. Ground ball after ground ball. Fielded his position. Could hit - although if ahead late he’d often just stand in box take 3 and sit. There are no Rick Reuschel’s today. He didn’t “miss bats” enough. He just got hitters out.

[lex24]

Interesting article by Angelina Martin. She claims that Mike Petriello used FanGraph's WAR projections to determine the league's most improved roster. The result? Giants had the fourth best offseason (added 7.2 WAR) behind the Mets, Yankees and Rangers.

Giants greatly improved roster despite odd offseason, WAR stat shows

Petriello says that the Giants both improved the roster and had a disappointing winter. They didn't get Arson Judge and they didn't get Balsa Wood Ankles Correa, but...they built an entirely new outfield with Haniger and Conforto, they retained Joc Pederson, the reinforced their rotation with Stripling and Manaea, they had a of immense proportions bullpen upgrade in Rogers -- Taylor, that is. And Luke Jackson, whenever he returns. And DeSclefani will return.  And Logan Webb is sharing his world class changeup grip to the entire pitching staff.  They have a few new catchers -- and just about anyone is an upgrade from Bart. Maybe Joey Bart will recapture his August, 2022 magic and be his own upgrade. They'll have Villar for the full year, and Wade and Estrada can concentrate on one position.

88+ wins...

The funny thing is that most of the Giants should have an excellent, if not full turnaround year.

78.

Vegas' O/U line for Giants season wins is 88.5...

Ex-Stanford pitcher Tristan Beck is starting the opening game of the Cactus League today. Former Stanford player Austin Slater gets the start in the outfield. With two ex-Cardinals on the field, how can the Giants lose? I pity the Cubs...

Easy under…. :)

Beck might get a shot for at least a cup of coffee. Giants had something like 67 players last year. 32 of whom are no longer in the organization. I wanted him up last year, but he wasn’t on the 40. Is now. Of their starting pitchers in the minors (which now means they can go 5 on a good day) he’s behind Harrison and probably Winn. Although Harrison will be handled differently. He will get a call when they think he’s ready to stick. Beck more likely to get a call when the inevitable injuries strike and they need a guy for an emergency start. Kind of like what Hjelle has been doing.

Trades don’t happen that much in the spring. But if the Giants could trade Hjelle and another mid level prospect for a backup middle infielder that can actually field, I’d be quite happy. If he can run as well, I’d be thrilled.

Speed is, I think, coming back as an element of the game. At least I hope….

Speaking of speed - Padres 2 hours 29 min.  Rangers 2 hours 33 min.  Pitch clock is going to make a big difference.  It will be nice for the Giants game to be over by 9:30 instead of 10:15. Those late games are rough. Especially when they blow it and I keep running it through my mind. Silly I know.

My guess is the clock impacts relievers that throw gas the most. Doval has mentioned it. Not easy to throw 102 and quickly repeat. That is going to be good for the game. Controlling injuries to pitchers going to be even more important. One possible impact ( down the road) might be the return of pitchers. You remember them. Guys that changed speeds, hit targets, in/out, up/down, worked fast, used their defense. Could get through 7 . I’m hopeful.

Someone mentioned Rick Reuschel the other day. Loved to watch him. He’d just pump fastballs - varying the speed, and movement and location. Ground ball after ground ball. Fielded his position. Could hit - although if ahead late he’d often just stand in box take 3 and sit. There are no Rick Reuschel’s today. He didn’t “miss bats” enough. He just got hitters out.

[Mick]

[quote="Mick" pid='382999' dateline='1677031947']
Interesting article by Angelina Martin. She claims that Mike Petriello used FanGraph's WAR projections to determine the league's most improved roster. The result? Giants had the fourth best offseason (added 7.2 WAR) behind the Mets, Yankees and Rangers.

Giants greatly improved roster despite odd offseason, WAR stat shows

Petriello says that the Giants both improved the roster and had a disappointing winter. They didn't get Arson Judge and they didn't get Balsa Wood Ankles Correa, but...they built an entirely new outfield with Haniger and Conforto, they retained Joc Pederson, the reinforced their rotation with Stripling and Manaea, they had a of immense proportions bullpen upgrade in Rogers -- Taylor, that is. And Luke Jackson, whenever he returns. And DeSclefani will return.  And Logan Webb is sharing his world class changeup grip to the entire pitching staff.  They have a few new catchers -- and just about anyone is an upgrade from Bart. Maybe Joey Bart will recapture his August, 2022 magic and be his own upgrade. They'll have Villar for the full year, and Wade and Estrada can concentrate on one position.

88+ wins...

The funny thing is that most of the Giants should have an excellent, if not full turnaround year.

78.

Vegas' O/U line for Giants season wins is 88.5...

Ex-Stanford pitcher Tristan Beck is starting the opening game of the Cactus League today. Former Stanford player Austin Slater Stephen Piscotty gets the start in the outfield. With two ex-Cardinals on the field, how can the Giants lose? I pity the Cubs...

Starting lineup is Wade, Estrada, Pederson, Piscotty, Crawford, Ramos, Sabol, Schmitt and B. Johnson in CF. That's Bryce Johnson, 2017 SF Giants 6th round selection. Hit .290 with 31 SBs in AAA last year.

[Mick]

[quote="Mick" pid='382999' dateline='1677031947']
Interesting article by Angelina Martin. She claims that Mike Petriello used FanGraph's WAR projections to determine the league's most improved roster. The result? Giants had the fourth best offseason (added 7.2 WAR) behind the Mets, Yankees and Rangers.

Giants greatly improved roster despite odd offseason, WAR stat shows

Petriello says that the Giants both improved the roster and had a disappointing winter. They didn't get Arson Judge and they didn't get Balsa Wood Ankles Correa, but...they built an entirely new outfield with Haniger and Conforto, they retained Joc Pederson, the reinforced their rotation with Stripling and Manaea, they had a of immense proportions bullpen upgrade in Rogers -- Taylor, that is. And Luke Jackson, whenever he returns. And DeSclefani will return.  And Logan Webb is sharing his world class changeup grip to the entire pitching staff.  They have a few new catchers -- and just about anyone is an upgrade from Bart. Maybe Joey Bart will recapture his August, 2022 magic and be his own upgrade. They'll have Villar for the full year, and Wade and Estrada can concentrate on one position.

88+ wins...

The funny thing is that most of the Giants should have an excellent, if not full turnaround year.

78.

Vegas' O/U line for Giants season wins is 88.5...

Ex-Stanford pitcher Tristan Beck is starting the opening game of the Cactus League today. Former Stanford player Austin Slater Stephen Piscotty gets the start in the outfield. With two ex-Cardinals on the field, how can the Giants lose? I pity the Cubs...

Starting lineup is Wade, Estrada, Pederson, Piscotty, Crawford, Ramos, Sabol, Schmitt and B. Johnson in CF. That's Bryce Johnson, 2017 SF Giants 6th round selection. Hit .290 with 31 SBs in AAA last year.

[Giants]

88.5????   Take the under and go ahead and spend your winnings now.  No need to wait until September. 

Meanwhile, dream of Machado (3b) playing next to Casey Schmidt (ss) on the left side of the diamond for SF in 2024……..

[Giants]

88.5????   Take the under and go ahead and spend your winnings now.  No need to wait until September. 

Meanwhile, dream of Machado (3b) playing next to Casey Schmidt (ss) on the left side of the diamond for SF in 2024……..

[lex24]

88.5????   Take the under and go ahead and spend your winnings now.  No need to wait until September. 

Meanwhile, dream of Machado (3b) playing next to Casey Schmidt (ss) on the left side of the diamond for SF in 2024……..

Hey, one of the best chances for of the Giants  to have a really good year is for me to bet the under. So, you have to understand the strategy of that. I don’t bet much. When I do I usually lose……

Machado will end up a first baseman.  So, I have Schmitt at Third, Crawford back for one more after a stellar ‘23 at short, Estrada at second and Machado at first.  Haniger in left, Brown in Center and Yaz/Slater in right. With Ohtani at DH the days he doesn’t pitch. Ohtani, Webb, Cobb, Harrison and the kitchen sink is a nice rotation.   And it ain’t my money…. :)

[lex24]

88.5????   Take the under and go ahead and spend your winnings now.  No need to wait until September. 

Meanwhile, dream of Machado (3b) playing next to Casey Schmidt (ss) on the left side of the diamond for SF in 2024……..

Hey, one of the best chances for of the Giants  to have a really good year is for me to bet the under. So, you have to understand the strategy of that. I don’t bet much. When I do I usually lose……

Machado will end up a first baseman.  So, I have Schmitt at Third, Crawford back for one more after a stellar ‘23 at short, Estrada at second and Machado at first.  Haniger in left, Brown in Center and Yaz/Slater in right. With Ohtani at DH the days he doesn’t pitch. Ohtani, Webb, Cobb, Harrison and the kitchen sink is a nice rotation.   And it ain’t my money…. :)

[Giants]

88.5????   Take the under and go ahead and spend your winnings now.  No need to wait until September. 

Meanwhile, dream of Machado (3b) playing next to Casey Schmidt (ss) on the left side of the diamond for SF in 2024……..

Hey, one of the best chances for of the Giants  to have a really good year is for me to bet the under. So, you have to understand the strategy of that. I don’t bet much. When I do I usually lose……

Machado will end up a first baseman.  So, I have Schmitt at Third, Crawford back for one more after a stellar ‘23 at short, Estrada at second and Machado at first.  Haniger in left, Brown in Center and Yaz/Slater in right. With Ohtani at DH the days he doesn’t pitch. Ohtani, Webb, Cobb, Harrison and the kitchen sink is a nice rotation.   And it ain’t my money…. :)

Well, if your gonna dream, dream big!  

Your strategy sounds like “opposite George”.  And no, I don’t bet at all on sports.  But I do follow the numbers…..

[Giants]

88.5????   Take the under and go ahead and spend your winnings now.  No need to wait until September. 

Meanwhile, dream of Machado (3b) playing next to Casey Schmidt (ss) on the left side of the diamond for SF in 2024……..

Hey, one of the best chances for of the Giants  to have a really good year is for me to bet the under. So, you have to understand the strategy of that. I don’t bet much. When I do I usually lose……

Machado will end up a first baseman.  So, I have Schmitt at Third, Crawford back for one more after a stellar ‘23 at short, Estrada at second and Machado at first.  Haniger in left, Brown in Center and Yaz/Slater in right. With Ohtani at DH the days he doesn’t pitch. Ohtani, Webb, Cobb, Harrison and the kitchen sink is a nice rotation.   And it ain’t my money…. :)

Well, if your gonna dream, dream big!  

Your strategy sounds like “opposite George”.  And no, I don’t bet at all on sports.  But I do follow the numbers…..

[Mick]

Ex-Stanford pitcher Tristan Beck is starting the opening game of the Cactus League today. Former Stanford player Austin Slater Stephen Piscotty gets the start in the outfield. With two ex-Cardinals on the field, how can the Giants lose? I pity the Cubs...

Starting lineup is Wade, Estrada, Pederson, Piscotty, Crawford, Ramos, Sabol, Schmitt and B. Johnson in CF. That's Bryce Johnson, 2017 SF Giants 6th round selection. Hit .290 with 31 SBs in AAA last year.

Giants ahead 1-0 after an inning. Stanford alum Piscotty knocked in Estrada. Stanford alum Beck pitched a scoreless first inning, helped out by a nifty double play started by Casey Schmitt at 3B, 5-4-3, and got Cody Bellinger to fly out.

BTW, Cubs are taking this seriously. Their #3 starter, Marcus Stroman, took the mound.

[Mick]

Ex-Stanford pitcher Tristan Beck is starting the opening game of the Cactus League today. Former Stanford player Austin Slater Stephen Piscotty gets the start in the outfield. With two ex-Cardinals on the field, how can the Giants lose? I pity the Cubs...

Starting lineup is Wade, Estrada, Pederson, Piscotty, Crawford, Ramos, Sabol, Schmitt and B. Johnson in CF. That's Bryce Johnson, 2017 SF Giants 6th round selection. Hit .290 with 31 SBs in AAA last year.

Giants ahead 1-0 after an inning. Stanford alum Piscotty knocked in Estrada. Stanford alum Beck pitched a scoreless first inning, helped out by a nifty double play started by Casey Schmitt at 3B, 5-4-3, and got Cody Bellinger to fly out.

BTW, Cubs are taking this seriously. Their #3 starter, Marcus Stroman, took the mound.

[Giants]

Ex-Stanford pitcher Tristan Beck is starting the opening game of the Cactus League today. Former Stanford player Austin Slater Stephen Piscotty gets the start in the outfield. With two ex-Cardinals on the field, how can the Giants lose? I pity the Cubs...

Starting lineup is Wade, Estrada, Pederson, Piscotty, Crawford, Ramos, Sabol, Schmitt and B. Johnson in CF. That's Bryce Johnson, 2017 SF Giants 6th round selection. Hit .290 with 31 SBs in AAA last year.

Giants ahead 1-0 after an inning. Stanford alum Piscotty knocked in Estrada. Stanford alum Beck pitched a scoreless first inning, helped out by a nifty double play started by Casey Schmitt at 3B, 5-4-3, and got Cody Bellinger to fly out.

BTW, Cubs are taking this seriously. Their #3 starter, Marcus Stroman, took the mound.
———-

Sabol, Wade, Schmidt go deep.

[Giants]

Ex-Stanford pitcher Tristan Beck is starting the opening game of the Cactus League today. Former Stanford player Austin Slater Stephen Piscotty gets the start in the outfield. With two ex-Cardinals on the field, how can the Giants lose? I pity the Cubs...

Starting lineup is Wade, Estrada, Pederson, Piscotty, Crawford, Ramos, Sabol, Schmitt and B. Johnson in CF. That's Bryce Johnson, 2017 SF Giants 6th round selection. Hit .290 with 31 SBs in AAA last year.

Giants ahead 1-0 after an inning. Stanford alum Piscotty knocked in Estrada. Stanford alum Beck pitched a scoreless first inning, helped out by a nifty double play started by Casey Schmitt at 3B, 5-4-3, and got Cody Bellinger to fly out.

BTW, Cubs are taking this seriously. Their #3 starter, Marcus Stroman, took the mound.
———-

Sabol, Wade, Schmidt go deep.

[lex24]

Ex-Stanford pitcher Tristan Beck is starting the opening game of the Cactus League today. Former Stanford player Austin Slater Stephen Piscotty gets the start in the outfield. With two ex-Cardinals on the field, how can the Giants lose? I pity the Cubs...

Starting lineup is Wade, Estrada, Pederson, Piscotty, Crawford, Ramos, Sabol, Schmitt and B. Johnson in CF. That's Bryce Johnson, 2017 SF Giants 6th round selection. Hit .290 with 31 SBs in AAA last year.

Giants ahead 1-0 after an inning. Stanford alum Piscotty knocked in Estrada. Stanford alum Beck pitched a scoreless first inning, helped out by a nifty double play started by Casey Schmitt at 3B, 5-4-3, and got Cody Bellinger to fly out.

BTW, Cubs are taking this seriously. Their #3 starter, Marcus Stroman, took the mound.

———-

Sabol, Wade, Schmidt go deep.
Schmitt also made a brilliant defensive play. I’m thinking ROY and MVP……

Mick left off Erik Miller. He goes today as well.

[lex24]

Ex-Stanford pitcher Tristan Beck is starting the opening game of the Cactus League today. Former Stanford player Austin Slater Stephen Piscotty gets the start in the outfield. With two ex-Cardinals on the field, how can the Giants lose? I pity the Cubs...

Starting lineup is Wade, Estrada, Pederson, Piscotty, Crawford, Ramos, Sabol, Schmitt and B. Johnson in CF. That's Bryce Johnson, 2017 SF Giants 6th round selection. Hit .290 with 31 SBs in AAA last year.

Giants ahead 1-0 after an inning. Stanford alum Piscotty knocked in Estrada. Stanford alum Beck pitched a scoreless first inning, helped out by a nifty double play started by Casey Schmitt at 3B, 5-4-3, and got Cody Bellinger to fly out.

BTW, Cubs are taking this seriously. Their #3 starter, Marcus Stroman, took the mound.

———-

Sabol, Wade, Schmidt go deep.
Schmitt also made a brilliant defensive play. I’m thinking ROY and MVP……

Mick left off Erik Miller. He goes today as well.

[Giants]

Ex-Stanford pitcher Tristan Beck is starting the opening game of the Cactus League today. Former Stanford player Austin Slater Stephen Piscotty gets the start in the outfield. With two ex-Cardinals on the field, how can the Giants lose? I pity the Cubs...

Starting lineup is Wade, Estrada, Pederson, Piscotty, Crawford, Ramos, Sabol, Schmitt and B. Johnson in CF. That's Bryce Johnson, 2017 SF Giants 6th round selection. Hit .290 with 31 SBs in AAA last year.

Giants ahead 1-0 after an inning. Stanford alum Piscotty knocked in Estrada. Stanford alum Beck pitched a scoreless first inning, helped out by a nifty double play started by Casey Schmitt at 3B, 5-4-3, and got Cody Bellinger to fly out.

BTW, Cubs are taking this seriously. Their #3 starter, Marcus Stroman, took the mound.

———-

Sabol, Wade, Schmitt go deep. (apologies for misspelling Schmitt’s name)

Schmitt also made a brilliant defensive play. I’m thinking ROY and MVP……

Mick left off Erik Miller.  He goes today as well.
—-

The other side of the coin - 4 errors…..

[Giants]

Ex-Stanford pitcher Tristan Beck is starting the opening game of the Cactus League today. Former Stanford player Austin Slater Stephen Piscotty gets the start in the outfield. With two ex-Cardinals on the field, how can the Giants lose? I pity the Cubs...

Starting lineup is Wade, Estrada, Pederson, Piscotty, Crawford, Ramos, Sabol, Schmitt and B. Johnson in CF. That's Bryce Johnson, 2017 SF Giants 6th round selection. Hit .290 with 31 SBs in AAA last year.

Giants ahead 1-0 after an inning. Stanford alum Piscotty knocked in Estrada. Stanford alum Beck pitched a scoreless first inning, helped out by a nifty double play started by Casey Schmitt at 3B, 5-4-3, and got Cody Bellinger to fly out.

BTW, Cubs are taking this seriously. Their #3 starter, Marcus Stroman, took the mound.

———-

Sabol, Wade, Schmitt go deep. (apologies for misspelling Schmitt’s name)

Schmitt also made a brilliant defensive play. I’m thinking ROY and MVP……

Mick left off Erik Miller.  He goes today as well.
—-

The other side of the coin - 4 errors…..

[Mick]

Now up to six errors, by Coulter, Estrada, Figliotti, Stryffeler, Fitzgerald and Schmitt.  That's it boys, get it out of your system.

Sabol went 2/3 with a double and an HR.  Now batting third, your starting catcher, Mr. Sabol...

Only one of the seven Giants' pitchers pitched with the big club last year. And it shows, they have given up nine walks, the Cubs have given up just two walks. The Cubs' second pitcher, btw, was their #5 starter last year; and their last pitcher (Leiter) pitched in 35 games at the big league level. All three had ERAs under 4.00 at the major league level.  

Maybe, just maybe, this Giants lineup can hit a little.

[Mick]

Now up to six errors, by Coulter, Estrada, Figliotti, Stryffeler, Fitzgerald and Schmitt.  That's it boys, get it out of your system.

Sabol went 2/3 with a double and an HR.  Now batting third, your starting catcher, Mr. Sabol...

Only one of the seven Giants' pitchers pitched with the big club last year. And it shows, they have given up nine walks, the Cubs have given up just two walks. The Cubs' second pitcher, btw, was their #5 starter last year; and their last pitcher (Leiter) pitched in 35 games at the big league level. All three had ERAs under 4.00 at the major league level.  

Maybe, just maybe, this Giants lineup can hit a little.