The San Francisco Giants are taking calls on top prospect Bryce Eldridge this winter, according to Jim Bowden of The Athletic.
It’s a notable shift for an organization that’s watched its farm system underperform in recent years. The Giants aren’t actively shopping Eldridge, but they’re willing to listen if the right offer comes along.
“The Cardinals will move Brendan Donovan, the Giants will listen on Bryce Eldridge, the Padres are shopping Jake Cronenworth and Nick Pivetta, the Astros are trying to move Christian Walker and Jake Meyers, the Royals will move a starter for a power-hitting left fielder and the Red Sox will trade Jarren Duran if they get the right corner infielder or starting pitcher,” Bowden wrote.
The timing makes sense when you consider where the Giants are as an organization. They’re not rebuilding, but they’re not exactly contending either. That’s the kind of spot where trading prospects for proven talent can make a difference.
Eldridge’s value has taken a hit after some struggles during his brief big league exposure this past season. A few years ago, he might’ve been the centerpiece for a legitimate star. That’s probably not the case anymore.
But there’s still enough talent there to interest teams looking for young position player depth. The Giants just need to find the right match – someone willing to give up a player who can help them compete in 2025.
The way I see it, the Giants can’t afford to hold onto prospects indefinitely while hoping they develop. Sometimes you have to cash in while there’s still value on the table.
What makes this interesting is that San Francisco seems open to multiple approaches this winter. They’re not committed to one direction, which could work in their favor if the market develops the right way.
