Giants Eyeing Nico Hoerner as Second-Base Upgrade

The San Francisco Giants head into this offseason with a pretty clear agenda. They want to strengthen the top of their starting rotation and add some real punch to an outfield that’s lacked power.

If they can’t find those big bats for the outfield, they’ll look for offense at second base instead. The free-agent market is thin, so the Giants are exploring trades and considering every option to find the right mix of power, defense, and contract value.

Giants’ Offseason Blueprint: Pitching, Outfield, and Second Base

The front office has set its priorities: upgrade the starting pitching and land at least one solid, middle-of-the-order outfield bat. Those are the moves they want to make first.

If a premium outfield hitter doesn’t materialize, they’re ready to pivot. The Giants will seek offense at second base, either through free agency or a trade if needed.

Why Second Base Has Become a Strategic Pivot Point

Second base isn’t the flashiest need, but it’s turned into a pressure valve for the roster. The spot lets the Giants improve the lineup without blocking key young players for the future.

Several teams seem open to moving infielders, so second base is a realistic way for the Giants to add both offense and defense. It’s a practical route, even if it’s not the headline move.

Trade Targets: High-End Second Basemen on the Giants’ Radar

The Giants have already checked in on a handful of established second basemen and versatile infielders. They want someone who can help right away and reshape the roster depth.

Nico Hoerner: Elite Defense, Local Ties, and Big Cost

Nico Hoerner is just about everything the Giants value. He grew up in Oakland, played at Stanford, and shifted to second base full-time in 2023.

He’s already won two Gold Gloves and stands out as one of baseball’s best defenders at the spot. Hoerner led the Chicago Cubs in bWAR last season at 6.2, hitting .297 with 29 stolen bases. He brings contact, speed, and on-base skills to the lineup.

That glove-plus-offense combo fits perfectly at Oracle Park, which rewards defense and speed. The challenge? Hoerner would be a one-year rental and would cost a lot in prospects, especially if the Cubs shake up their infield.

Ketel Marte: Star Talent, Long-Term Commitment

Ketel Marte of the Arizona Diamondbacks is another name in the mix. Marte brings switch-hitting power, plays multiple positions, and has a history of postseason success.

But he’s signed to a long-term deal with Arizona, making any trade both complicated and pricey. Trading within the division doesn’t make things easier. The Diamondbacks say they’ll listen, but honestly, a deal feels like a long shot right now.

Brandon Lowe: Power Bat in a Contract Year

Brandon Lowe offers something different. The Tampa Bay Rays infielder has left-handed power and can play all over the diamond.

He’s heading into the final year of his contract, so he’s a more realistic short-term target for a team looking for offense without a big payroll hit. There’s even talk of a multi-team or position-based swap, with the Diamondbacks and Rays as possible partners.

Lowe’s power could fit well at Oracle Park, assuming the Giants are OK with some swing-and-miss as the trade-off for home runs.

Brendan Donovan: Versatility, Prime Years, and Rising Price

Brendan Donovan might be the most modern option. At 28, he’s a Gold Glove defender with All-Star credentials and can play both infield and outfield.

His versatility would let the Giants mix and match their lineups, cover injuries, and rest regulars without losing much on defense or offense. Donovan grinds out good at-bats and has played well against the Giants in the past.

He’s still under team control for a while, which makes him expensive in trade talks. Teams rarely part with players like Donovan unless they get a big return.

Internal Options and a Thin Free-Agent Market

The Giants haven’t forgotten about their own players or the handful of free agents who might fit. They’re keeping all options open while working the phones.

Casey Schmitt’s Role in the Giants’ Infield Picture

Casey Schmitt is still a big part of the plan. His defense already stands out, and he can handle both second and third base.

Schmitt is under team control through 2029, giving the Giants some cost certainty. If they trade for a full-time second baseman, Schmitt could slide into a utility role, bringing top-notch defense all over the infield and keeping the roster flexible.

Luis Rengifo and the Free-Agent Safety Net

The free-agent market at second base isn’t deep, but Luis Rengifo stands out. He’s coming off a .300 season in 2024 and even got a surprise Gold Glove nomination.

Rengifo brings contact, athleticism, and better defense than he used to. There’s also a connection: infield coach Ron Washington, now with the Giants, helped him improve defensively. That familiarity could make San Francisco a logical fit if trades get too expensive or complicated.

What It All Means for the Giants’ Offseason Strategy

The Giants see second base as a strategic lever. They can pivot there if bigger moves in the rotation or outfield don’t come together.

They’ve got options. There are trade targets like Hoerner, Marte, Lowe, and Donovan.

Schmitt sits among the internal choices. Free agents like Rengifo are also on the radar.

How bold they get probably hinges on landing that big-name outfield bat or a frontline starter. Second base isn’t just an afterthought anymore—it might shape how competitive they’ll be in 2025 and beyond.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Will Giants add a second baseman? Nico Hoerner among players they’re eyeing