What Role Will 21-Year-Old Power Hitter Play for the Giants Next Season?
Despite the clamoring of fans to bring another star player to the Bay Area, the San Francisco Giants have had a quiet offseason so far. To be fair, they have a lot of money tied up with the deals of Rafael Devers, Willy Adames, Matt Chapman, and Jung Hoo Lee. Additionally, the team and their fans have not yet seen the fruits of these contracts, as all four of the Giants’ core members have only played half a season together. Therefore, the Giants will rely on their younger players to grow and take steps forward this upcoming season.
While there are questions about the second base position, first base is taken care of. The Giants have Bryce Eldridge, their top prospect, waiting in the wings to make an impact. He skyrocketed through the minor league ranks last season, batting .260 with 25 home runs and 84 runs batted in. By September, he was a highly anticipated arrival, but had a quiet showing in limited playing time. Through 10 games, Eldridge had a .107 batting average and four runs batted in. Now moving into his first full season, the 21-year-old will likely split the first base duties with the proven superstar Devers. As both players are power hitters, they could also share the designated hitter spot in the lineup.
Is keeping Eldridge the right move? Since Devers’ arrival, there have been rumors surrounding whether the Giants might trade their top prospect. However, the Giants have yet to make a move. There are multiple ways of viewing the situation. A possible negative consequence would be that the constant switch between the two roles could disrupt his rhythm, a necessity for a young player’s development. On the other hand, sharing positional and designated hitter duties with Devers will allow him time to adapt to MLB life without the physical and mental pressures of being on the field every day. A secondary positive outcome would be the two players develop a bond and become a slugging brotherhood; it would be a beautiful sight for Giants fans. Since the home run king, Barry Bonds’ retirement in 2007, the organization has yet to have such high-caliber left-handed power.
