The San Francisco Giants have secured a two-year contract with free agent center fielder Harrison Bader, valued at $20.5 million, according to ESPN’s Jeff Passan. This signing marks a significant move for the Giants, who aim to strengthen their outfield defense after a challenging previous season.
Bader, now 31 years old, is a right-handed hitter who recently concluded one of his most productive offensive seasons. He brings a much-needed defensive upgrade to the Giants’ center field, which has been a key objective for the franchise during the offseason. Last year, the Giants’ outfielders collectively recorded minus-18 outs above average, tying them with the Baltimore Orioles for the lowest figure in Major League Baseball.
With a Gold Glove award under his belt from 2021, Bader is expected to take on the role of the everyday center fielder. His arrival may lead to an adjustment in the outfield lineup, potentially moving Jung Hoo Lee to right field. Lee, known for his strong throwing arm, struggled with range last season.
Bader’s most recent season saw him play for the Minnesota Twins and the Philadelphia Phillies, where he achieved a batting line of .277/.347/.449. He recorded 17 home runs, 54 RBIs, and 11 stolen bases in 18 attempts. His on-base plus slugging (OPS) of .796 was the highest of his nine-year career, indicating a notable offensive improvement.
Originally drafted in the third round by the St. Louis Cardinals in 2015, Bader has played for six teams since 2017. His offensive production against right-handed pitchers has significantly improved, as he posted a batting line of .300/.369/.476 against same-side pitching last season. This development suggests that he can serve as more than just a platoon player.
The acquisition of Bader stands out in a relatively conservative offseason for the Giants, who have primarily focused on adding depth through lower-cost contracts, including pitchers Tyler Mahle and Adrian Houser. The team continues to explore options for a second baseman as they prepare for the upcoming season.
The Athletic was the first to report on Bader’s deal with the Giants, highlighting the franchise’s commitment to enhancing their roster ahead of the new campaign.
