The San Francisco Giants are heading toward seller status with less than two months until the August 3 trade deadline. At 25-38, they’re running out of time to turn things around.
That’s where Luis Arraez comes in. The veteran second baseman is shaping up to be one of their most attractive trade pieces, and that’s creating a bittersweet situation for the organization.
Robert Murray of FanSided reports that Arraez should be a popular name on the trade market, along with starter Robbie Ray and others. For a Giants team that’s likely headed for a sell-off, that’s exactly what they need to hear.
The Silver Lining
Here’s the thing – Arraez is having a breakout season at second base. The 29-year-old is showing surprisingly good defense while maintaining his usual offensive production. That combination makes him an appealing target for contending teams.
The Giants signed Arraez to a $12 million one-year deal, making him a rental piece. But when a rental is performing this well, it typically drives up the trade value.
What makes this different is the timing. Teams looking for middle infield help will have options, but Arraez’s track record and current performance should put him near the top of wish lists.
“Arraez, 29, should be a popular name on the trade market along with starter Robbie Ray, among others.”
Why It’s Complicated
The Giants never wanted to be in this position. They brought in Arraez to help make a playoff push, not to flip him for prospects at the deadline.
But that’s where they sit at 25-38. The math isn’t working in their favor, and selling veterans like Arraez is becoming the most logical path forward.
From where I’m sitting, this is exactly the type of decision that separates rebuilding teams from competitive ones. The Giants have to maximize their return while they can.
All things considered, if you’re going to be a seller, having players that other teams want is better than the alternative. The Giants should be able to land a solid return for Arraez based on early market indicators, even if it’s not the scenario they envisioned when they signed him.
