UPDATE: The San Francisco Giants have just signed right-hander Adrian Houser to a two-year contract with a club option for 2028, officially announced early Friday morning. This signing fills one of two vacancies in their starting rotation, but the team is still on the hunt for a fifth starter as the offseason intensifies.
During a press call, Giants general manager Zack Minasian emphasized the team’s ambition to add two starting pitchers this offseason, while also giving younger arms the time they need to develop. “I don’t know if I would characterize it quite as a need at this point,” Minasian stated. “We have seven or eight players; if we can’t develop a couple of those, shame on us.”
The urgency is palpable; the Giants witnessed the volatility of young pitchers last season, and acquiring a proven starter could stabilize the rotation. “Getting Adrian in the fold gives you some comfort that we have legitimate fifth starter options,” Minasian added.
Among the candidates for the final rotation spot are younger pitchers like Hayden Birdsong, Carson Whisenhunt, and Blade Tidwell, but these options lack extensive major-league success. Birdsong, 24, showed promise early last season but struggled with command, while Whisenhunt’s brief appearances were less impressive.
As the calendar year closes, the Giants are unlikely to pursue elite names like Framber Valdez or Tatsuya Imai, but many viable free-agent starters remain on the market. Notable names include Zac Gallen, a former All-Star, and Chris Bassitt, who has consistently pitched over 170 innings in recent seasons.
Minasian confirmed that the team is actively exploring options to enhance their rotation depth. “If we can find somebody that we like through free agency or trade, we’ll be active there,” he stated. This reflects the organization’s commitment to building a strong and competitive roster.
In a noteworthy development, Houser, who will turn 33 in February, is coming off a season where he posted a 3.31 ERA over 21 starts with the White Sox and Rays. Despite an inconsistent career, his recent velocity spike could lead to substantial improvements. “We really believed in the mechanical changes he made,” Minasian remarked, underscoring Houser’s potential for success.
Looking ahead, the Giants are expected to make a corresponding roster move to accommodate Houser. Additionally, right-handed reliever Jason Foley, who underwent shoulder surgery last season, will not return until midseason. Outfielder Joey Wiemer has been designated for assignment to make room for Foley on the 40-man roster.
As the Giants finalize their coaching roles, the urgency to solidify their rotation remains high. With the offseason still unfolding, fans are eager to see how the Giants will navigate the challenges ahead and potentially reshape their pitching staff.
Stay tuned for more updates on the Giants’ offseason moves and emerging roster strategies as they prepare for the upcoming season.
