The San Francisco Giants have signed center fielder Harrison Bader to a two-year contract worth $20.5 million. This is an exciting move for the team as they focus on improving their defense.
Bader, who is 31 and a right-handed hitter, had an impressive season last year. He batted .277 with 17 home runs and 54 RBIs. His .796 OPS marked the best performance of his nine-year career. In addition to his offensive strengths, Bader is known for his defensive skills. He won a Gold Glove in 2021 and is expected to significantly enhance the Giants’ outfield, which struggled last season. The team’s outfielders recorded a combined minus-18 outs above average, the lowest in Major League Baseball.
This shift not only positions Bader as an everyday center fielder but may also lead to Jung Hoo Lee moving to right field, benefiting the team’s overall strategy. Bader has shown growth in his abilities to hit against right-handed pitchers, which is a positive indicator for his future contributions.
Historically, Bader was drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals in the third round of the 2015 MLB Draft. Since then, he’s played for six teams but has consistently worked on his game. His recent improvements against same-side pitching emphasize that he’s more than just a situational player.
The signing of Bader stands out in what has been a quiet offseason for the Giants. They’ve mostly focused on adding low-cost starters, including Tyler Mahle and Adrian Houser, and are still in search of a second baseman.
According to a recent survey by ESPN, teams that invest in robust outfield defense often see improved overall performance. Bader’s addition could be a significant step toward enhancing the Giants’ chances in the upcoming season.
The Athletic was the first to deliver the news about Bader’s deal with the Giants.
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