The San Francisco Giants faced a challenging season, falling short of their postseason aspirations and leaving fans disappointed. With the opportunity to address several issues during the winter, they have a chance to make significant improvements.
The Giants’ struggles stemmed from a variety of factors, including injuries and underperformance from key players. Camilo Doval, once considered a top relief pitcher, had a particularly tough year, leading to a brief stint in Triple-A.
While it’s unclear if the Giants view Doval as a player they need to replace, there are options available. Jim Bowden of The Athletic mentioned the Giants as potential suitors for Jeff Hoffman, who had a standout year, earning All-Star honors with a 2.17 ERA and a 0.965 WHIP across 68 games. Despite his impressive regular season, Hoffman struggled in the postseason, allowing six runs in just 1.1 innings. With the Phillies unlikely to keep both Hoffman and Carlos Estévez, he could be on the market.
Hoffman is definitely a player to watch this winter. His strong performance suggests he could command a lucrative contract, though his late-season struggles may affect that. Bowden predicts a three-year, $27 million deal, which the Giants’ front office should find acceptable.
Recognizing the necessity of an above-average bullpen, the Giants are expected to add at least one or two arms, regardless of whether they seek a direct replacement for Doval. Improving the bullpen remains a smart move.
While Doval’s recent challenges add complexity to the situation, it’s important to remember that pitcher inconsistencies can be unpredictable. With his electric stuff, a return to form in 2025 could see him reclaim his All-Star status.
If the Giants can sign Hoffman and see Doval bounce back, their bullpen could become a formidable force.