As Opening Day approaches, the San Francisco Giants are making final roster decisions, trimming down to the essential 26 players. On Tuesday, just before their last preseason exhibition, the Giants made significant moves by optioning a group of right-handed pitchers-Spencer Bivens, Trevor McDonald, Tristan Beck, and Carson Seymour-to AAA Sacramento. Joining them are outfielders Drew Gilbert and Will Brennan.
Bivens' demotion comes as a surprise to many. Having been a staple in the bullpen last year, his consistent performance seemed to secure his spot.
His stats from last season-4.00 ERA, 3.70 FIP, with 6.8 strikeouts and 2.8 walks per nine innings-highlighted his reliability, especially in long relief roles. However, with a new coaching regime under Tony Vitello, the dynamics have shifted, and it looks like JT Brubaker might fill that role.
McDonald had an impressive start to camp, making a strong case for the roster, particularly after Hayden Birdsong's injury. Yet, after a promising beginning, he struggled in his final outings, which led to his reassignment. He'll head to the Minors, ready to step up when needed, whether in relief or as a potential starter.
Seymour's optioning was expected despite his solid spring numbers (2.92 ERA, 3.74 FIP). His performance in the recent exhibition game, where he allowed four hits and two runs in one inning, likely sealed his fate for now. Still, his potential means we’ll likely see him back in the Majors soon.
Beck, too, was unsurprisingly optioned. After a challenging previous season and a shaky spring, he remains a valuable depth option, ready to be called up when needed.
On the outfield front, Gilbert and Brennan's demotions weren't shocking. Gilbert, initially a favorite for the fourth outfielder spot, struggled to find his form post-injury.
Brennan showed promise but was ultimately surpassed by NRI Jared Oliva. Both will be key players in Sacramento, poised to contribute at the Major League level when called upon.
Interestingly, the Giants' decisions leave them without a left-handed bench option, with only right-handed outfielders Oliva, Luis Matos, and Jerar Encarnación competing for the final spots. The infielders Casey Schmitt and Christian Koss are likely to make the roster, and Daniel Susac seems favored to secure the backup catcher position over Eric Haase.
With these latest roster moves, the Giants are down to 33 players in camp, effectively 31 as Reiver Sanmartin and Sam Hentges are expected to hit the Injured List soon. The team will need to make a few more decisions to finalize the roster by Wednesday morning.