The San Francisco Giants are in a tight spot this offseason, and it’s enough to make even the most loyal fan’s heart race. With top free agents like Cody Bellinger, Bo Bichette, Luis Robert Jr., and Freddy Peralta off the board, the Giants’ options are dwindling faster than a fastball from Framber Valdez. But here’s where it gets controversial: are the remaining players worth the investment, or is it time to pivot to trades? Let’s dive into the ranks of the free agents still on the table, and trust me, this is the part most people miss—the nuances that could make or break the Giants’ season.
First, let’s address the elephant in the room: the Giants missed out on some serious talent. Bellinger, Bichette, Robert, and Peralta? Any one of them could’ve been a game-changer. Robert, in particular, was a high-risk, high-reward play that could’ve paid dividends. But they’re all gone, and now the Giants are left scrambling. It’s late January, and the pressure is on. If not these stars, then who?
To help make sense of it all, we’ve ranked the remaining free agents the Giants might actually consider. Forget the Eugenio Suárezes and Marcell Ozunas of the world—we’re focusing on players who could realistically fit into the Giants’ plans. And this is where it gets interesting.
1. Framber Valdez, LHP
The Ace in Waiting—or Is He?
Pros: Valdez is hands-down the best pitcher left on the market. Pairing him with another top arm would give the Giants a 1-2 punch that could rival any rotation in baseball. But here’s the kicker: is his personality a dealbreaker? Valdez is… let’s say unique. The infamous cross-up controversy with the Astros still raises eyebrows. Was it intentional? We may never know, but it’s a red flag.
Cons: Signing Valdez would cost the Giants a high second-round pick and international bonus money, essentially making it feel like a trade. Plus, his quirky personality might not mesh with the clubhouse. And let’s not forget—if they sign him, they’re unlikely to invest in another All-Star pitcher anytime soon. This is their big move.
Excitement Level: 8/10. Valdez is a stud, and he’d instantly elevate the rotation. But the Giants aren’t likely to pull the trigger, so don’t hold your breath.
2. Zac Gallen, RHP
The Rebound Candidate—or Is He Past His Prime?
Pros: Gallen has been one of the best starters in baseball, except for a rough start to 2025. Those struggles might’ve dropped him into the Giants’ price range, and he could bounce back to his All-Star form. He’s also open to a deal with player options, which aligns with the Giants’ reluctance to hand out long-term contracts to pitchers.
Cons: Like Valdez, signing Gallen would cost the Giants a draft pick and international bonus money. Plus, his 2025 performance raises questions about whether he’ll ever return to his peak. Remember Madison Bumgarner’s move to the Diamondbacks? Gallen might be heading down a similar path.
Excitement Level: 7/10. He’d be a solid addition for 2026, but there’s no guarantee he’ll regain his elite form.
3. Harrison Bader, CF
The Defensive Whiz—or a Health Risk?
Pros: Bader is one of the best defensive center fielders in the game, a position where the Giants desperately need help. Even when his bat cools off, his glove keeps him valuable. And when he’s hitting like he did last season (.277/.347/.449 with 17 homers), he’s a game-changer.
Cons: Bader’s injury history is a concern. He’s missed significant time in recent years, and signing him might mean parting ways with Luis Matos. Is a half-season of Bader plus his replacement worth it?
Excitement Level: 5/10. He’d fill a need, but don’t expect fireworks.
4. Nick Martinez, RHP
The Swiss Army Knife—or a Declining Veteran?
Pros: Martinez is the ultimate utility pitcher. Starter, reliever, spot starter, bulk-innings guy—he’s done it all. The Giants could sign him as a reliable depth piece, knowing he’ll always be there when needed.
Cons: At 35, Martinez’s strikeout rate plummeted last season, and his 4.45 ERA was his worst since returning from Japan. Is he cooked, or just over the hill?
Excitement Level: 3/10. Think of him as a reliable oil change—necessary but not thrilling.
5. Max Scherzer, RHP
The Postseason Legend—or a Shadow of His Former Self?
Pros: Scherzer is one of the few remaining pitchers who’s proven himself in the postseason. Even at 41, he thrived in the playoffs with the Blue Jays last year. He’s unlikely to get a multi-year deal, making him a low-risk, high-reward option.
Cons: Scherzer’s regular-season performance last year was underwhelming, and he might not be an upgrade over the Giants’ current rotation. Plus, at 41, how much does he have left in the tank?
Excitement Level: 5/10. He’d join an elite group of Giants legends, but don’t expect him to turn back the clock.
6. Mike Tauchman, OF
The Journeyman—or a Surprise Contributor?
Pros: Tauchman has had a solid career since leaving the Giants in 2021, with strong OBPs and excellent defense in Korea and Chicago. He’s the kind of player every team needs—reliable and consistent.
Cons: Tauchman hasn’t played much center field recently, and the Giants need someone who can either hit immediately or defend the position at an elite level. Tauchman might not fit the bill.
Excitement Level: 1/10. He’s a safe option, but don’t expect him to light the world on fire.
7. Miguel Andujar, OF/3B
The Former Prospect—or a Defensive Liability?
Pros: Andujar has hit well over the past two seasons (.302/.336/.425 with 14 homers), and he’s versatile enough to play multiple positions. He was once a top-100 prospect, and there’s still talent there.
Cons: Andujar is a below-average outfielder with a great arm but poor defensive skills. Signing him would likely mean sacrificing defense for offense, which might not be worth it.
Excitement Level: 1/10. He’s a long shot at best.
The Bottom Line
If the Giants want to make a splash this offseason, they’ll likely need to explore trades. There’s still an ace-level pitcher on the market, and a familiar quality starter, so it’s not trade-or-bust—yet. But time is running out, and the pressure is mounting. Will they make a bold move, or settle for what’s left? The clock is ticking, and the fans are watching.
Thought-Provoking Question: With the remaining free agents offering limited upside, should the Giants focus on trades instead? Or is there enough value left to justify signing one of these players? Let us know in the comments—we want to hear your take!
