Giants 2026 Outlook: Lee, Matos, Rotation and Closer Update

This article dives into the San Francisco Giants’ recent roster moves and shifting strategies. There’s a real focus on their outfield alignment, what it means for star signing Jung Hoo Lee, and how they’re trying to shore up other spots like second base and the bullpen.

The team seems to care a lot about defense right now. They’re also hunting for a bit more pop at the plate, but they’re not exactly going wild for big-name starting pitchers.

Giants Reshape Outfield: Bader In, Lee Shifts Right

The Giants just made a splash by signing veteran outfielder Harrison Bader to a two-year deal. He’s set to take over as their everyday center fielder, and that move shakes up the whole outfield.

Jung Hoo Lee, their big international signing, now shifts to right field. Buster Posey and GM Zack Minasian hinted Lee might still get a few games in center, but Bader’s clearly the guy for that spot.

Why the Shift for Jung Hoo Lee?

Lee has good speed and a strong arm—traits you’d want in a center fielder—but his -18 DRS (Defensive Runs Saved) last year raised eyebrows. By moving him to right, the Giants hope to get the most out of his arm and speed without exposing his defensive weaknesses.

They’re also raising the bar for his offense. His .266/.327/.407 slash line over 617 plate appearances was fine for center, but for right field? It’s just so-so. The Giants want more production from that spot.

Last season, right field was a black hole for San Francisco. After the trade deadline, their right fielders combined for a brutal .202/.249/.376 over 194 plate appearances. Lee’s supposed to fix that, or at least help.

The outfield depth chart’s still in flux. Drew Gilbert could end up as a fourth or fifth outfielder, depending how things shake out. Luis Matos, who’s out of minor league options after three up-and-down MLB seasons, needs to impress in camp or he might lose his roster spot.

Addressing Infield Needs and Pitching Philosophy

The Giants aren’t just focused on the outfield. They’re actively looking for infield help, especially at second base, and have been linked to some interesting trade targets.

Posey pointed out that upgrading second base matters more to the team than chasing expensive starting pitchers. That’s a pretty clear sign of where they’re putting their resources.

Targeting Second Base Upgrades

They’ve been tied to names like Brendan Donovan, Nico Hoerner, and CJ Abrams. Any of those guys would be a big step up at second. It shows the Giants want more flexibility and a stronger bat in the middle infield.

The front office seems to take a no-nonsense approach to starting pitching. Instead of bidding on top aces, they signed *Tyler Mahle* and *Adrian Houser* to short-term deals. They’re betting on depth and reliability over splurging on risky, high-priced arms.

Bullpen Competition and Closing Roles

The bullpen’s getting a little shakeup too. The Giants added relievers *Sam Hentges* and *Jason Foley* on one-year deals.

Both are coming off shoulder surgeries, so it’s a bit of a gamble. If they bounce back, though, San Francisco could land a couple of high-leverage arms on the cheap.

Open Competition for Closer

Posey made it clear—there’s “no set closer” heading into the season. Ryan Walker actually has the most ninth-inning experience in the bullpen right now, and he’s hoping to land the gig.

Still, the club wants things wide open. They’re pushing for a real competition this spring, not just handing out the job.

They figure this’ll spark some growth inside the group. Whoever steps up and grabs the moment will earn those high-pressure closing duties.
 
Here is the source article for this story: Giants Notes: Lee, Matos, Rotation, Closer