The San Francisco Giants could benefit from adding another strong hitter to their lineup. One potential option is Sacramento native, a power hitter who might enter free agency if he chooses to opt out of his contract with the Milwaukee Brewers.
Since debuting in 2017, He has consistently been a power threat, hitting 34 home runs in 2018 and 30 in 2022. In his most recent season with the Brewers, he posted a .216/.303/.419 slash line, along with 26 home runs and 82 RBIs over 449 at-bats.
While those numbers aren’t stellar, it’s worth noting that He missed the entire 2023 season due to injury, so 2024 may have been a comeback year as he worked to regain his form.
SF Giants should target Sacramento native
He signed a 2-year, $34 million contract with the Brewers before the 2024 season, with the Giants also being a possible destination. The deal includes an opt-out after this year, leaving Him to decide his next move. Logic suggests he will opt in, as testing free agency for more than $17 million next year may be risky following a disappointing 2024 season.
However, he might believe he can secure a better contract on the open market, or perhaps he’s looking for more long-term stability.
If he does opt out, the Giants should definitely pursue him. His childhood allegiance to the Giants is a bonus, and with the team’s uncertainty at first base, he’d be an upgrade. Injuries and struggles from LaMonte Wade Jr., Wilmer Flores, and Mark Canha left the Giants’ first base position lacking in 2024, as the trio combined for just 12 home runs—below the expected power from that position.
If the Giants signed Hoskins, they could expect him to hit 20-plus homers if he stays healthy. Even if his batting average and on-base percentage are low, his power would bring needed consistency to the Giants’ offense.
One concern is that Hoskins could block top prospect Bryce Eldridge, whose primary position is first base. However, the Giants could ease Eldridge into the majors by using him as a designated hitter initially, while Hoskins plays first base.
Signing Hoskins would also allow the Giants to part ways with Wade and Flores, whose injuries and poor performances in 2024 create doubts about their ability to contribute in 2025.
A 3-year deal worth $15-20 million per year, with an opt-out after the second season, would provide the Giants the flexibility to trade Hoskins if Eldridge pushes him out. Ultimately, Hoskins would improve the Giants in 2025, making him a prime target for the team.
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