The San Francisco Giants made a noteworthy move earlier this week, signing veteran infielder Luis Arráez to a one-year deal. While Arráez is slated to return to second base-a position that’s been a defensive challenge for him in the past-the Giants are betting that the presence of new infield coach Ron Washington can help unlock another level in his game.
And that’s not just wishful thinking. Washington’s reputation around the league as a defensive guru is well-earned.
His ability to elevate infielders’ play is a big reason why he’s held in such high regard by players and coaches alike. Now, with San Francisco bringing him aboard under rookie manager Tony Vitello, the hope is that Washington can work some of his magic with Arráez.
Washington’s résumé speaks for itself. He spent the last two seasons managing the Los Angeles Angels, but his most impactful work has often come as a coach.
During his time with the Oakland A’s in the mid-2010s, he worked closely with a young Marcus Semien-then a raw, athletic shortstop with plenty of tools but inconsistent execution. Washington helped Semien refine his game, focusing on the fundamentals and building consistency.
That work paid off in a big way.
Semien would go on to win a Gold Glove Award at shortstop in 2021 with the Toronto Blue Jays. Since moving to second base with the Texas Rangers, he’s continued that defensive excellence, adding two more Gold Gloves to his trophy case. That kind of transformation is exactly what the Giants are hoping to replicate with Arráez.
But let’s be clear: the road ahead for Arráez is steep. The defensive metrics haven’t been kind.
Since his debut with the Minnesota Twins in 2019, Arráez ranks last among second basemen in both Outs Above Average (OAA) and Fielding Run Value (FRV). He’s also posted -6 Defensive Runs Saved (DRS) at second base over that span.
Those numbers paint a picture of a player who has struggled to find his footing defensively-especially when it comes to range and making plays on balls hit in front of him.
Part of the issue is that Arráez hasn’t been a full-time second baseman throughout his career. He’s bounced around the diamond, which has likely hindered his ability to settle into the nuances of the position. But with a defined role and a coach like Washington in his corner, the Giants are hoping to see real progress.
There’s also belief within the organization that the foundation is there. Buster Posey, now a key voice in the Giants’ front office, sees potential in Arráez’s defensive game.
But even Posey knows that potential needs the right guidance to turn into production. That’s where Washington comes in.
This isn’t just about fixing a glove-it’s about maximizing the value of a player who brings a lot to the table offensively. If Arráez can become even an average defender at second base, it would be a massive win for the Giants. And with Washington’s track record, there’s real reason to believe that improvement is on the table.
The Giants are making a calculated bet here-not just on a player, but on a coach’s ability to elevate that player’s game. It’s a move that could quietly pay big dividends as the season unfolds.