The San Francisco Giants are dipping back into the independent league pipeline - and this time, they’re taking a flier on a hard-throwing right-hander with some intriguing tools. Mitch White, a reliever who’s spent the last two seasons in the Frontier League, has reportedly signed a minor league deal with the Giants.
Now, let’s clear something up right away: this isn’t the same Mitch White who logged a few innings with the Giants in 2024 before heading overseas to pitch for the SSG Landers in the KBO. This is a different pitcher - younger, rawer, and still very much in the developmental phase of his career.
White’s journey to affiliated ball has been anything but conventional. After finishing his college career at the University of Cincinnati in 2023 and going undrafted, he latched on with the Schaumburg Boomers of the Frontier League.
Over two seasons there, he posted a 3.56 ERA across 70 appearances, striking out 85 and walking 45. The strikeout numbers are solid, but the walk rate is something the Giants’ development staff will likely look to tighten up.
What makes White stand out is his stuff. He brings a mid-90s fastball with some late ride that plays well up in the zone.
His curveball, sitting in the mid-80s, is his most polished secondary offering - he’s shown a good feel for landing it in the zone or burying it when needed. He also mixes in a splitter that can touch 91 mph, giving him a third pitch with some real upside.
That’s a three-pitch mix with the kind of velocity and movement that teams love to mold.
White’s signing comes on the heels of a pro day hosted by Tread Athletics - a performance training facility that, like Driveline, has become a go-to destination for pitchers looking to add velocity, refine mechanics, or rework their arsenals. These facilities have become a legitimate bridge to professional baseball, particularly for players outside the draft spotlight. And in White’s case, it’s paid off with his first opportunity in affiliated ball.
The Giants have shown a knack for unearthing talent through these non-traditional channels. Spencer Bivens is a great example - a former independent league arm who climbed the ladder and has now logged over 120 big league innings with a respectable 3.68 ERA.
Dayson Croes is another name worth mentioning. He was prepping for his third season in the American Association when the Giants came calling.
Fast forward, and he’s already touched Triple-A.
White’s path will be his own, but the blueprint is there. The Giants have built a reputation for giving overlooked arms a real shot - and more importantly, helping them develop into contributors.
For Mitch White, this is the beginning of that journey. The tools are there.
Now it’s about refining the command, staying healthy, and showing he can compete against higher-level hitters.
Spring training will be his first test in the Giants system, and if he comes in showing improved control and continued velocity, he’ll be a name to keep an eye on in the minors this season.