MLB San Francisco Giants

San Francisco Giants Would Be Just Fine Without Pablo Sandoval

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By @real_johnshea

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The World Champion-San Francisco Giants could soon lose a key piece of their self-proclaimed dynasty, but regardless of panic, the Giants would be just fine without Pablo Sandoval. Even though Sandoval unleashed feel-good comments about wanting to finish his career in San Francisco after the Giants clinched the 2014 title, the “Kung Fu Panda” is in pursuit of a monster payday, one of which the Giants could soon turn their backs to if they feel the price is wrong.

Preliminary reports recently indicated the Giants were already “out” on Sandoval, although Sean McAdam of CSNNE.com quickly debunked those rumors, claiming the Giants are still “very much” in play for the two-time All-Star. Although it remains entirely possible for the Giants to reach a deal with Sandoval, it’s not as if the franchise would be entirely devastated if the 28-year-old veteran were to sign elsewhere.

Sandoval is a clutch hitter with above average defensive prowess at the hot corner, despite his physique. He’s been a face of the Giants during the club’s post-Barry Bonds resurgence and is a hands-down fan favorite. Sandoval is more than just a baseball player in the Bay Area; he’s a brand. His marketability increases his value, although that has not been reflected in the Giants’ pursuit to retain him. At least, not yet.

If the Giants were to lose the Sandoval sweepstakes, they would essentially be left without a third baseman. They don’t have a fall-back option. They would also gain greater financial flexibility, though, considering that Sandoval would likely command an annual salary equating to roughly $18-million.

San Francisco’s free agent options are null. They’ve been connected to Cuban outfielder Yasmani Tomas, who could potentially play third base, but the degree of their interest is unknown.

General manager Brian Sabean could venture into the trade front in order to stopgap the loss of Sandoval, who recorded a .739 OPS in 2014, which marked the second-worst statistical performance of his career (.732). Potential trade targets include Trevor Plouffe and Lonnie Chisenhall. Neither player would come cheap, but they both remain under club control through the 2018 season.

The Giants’ farm system is top-heavy with pitching prospects. Although Kyle Crick remains off limits in trade talks, Sabean has enough firepower at his disposal to at least engage some interest, especially if multiple farmhands are packaged with a big league-ready prospect, like catcher Andrew Susac.

The Giants remain in negotiations to retain Sandoval, but Sabean and Co. believe the three-time World Champs will be just fine without “Pandamonium.” Like they always do, the Giants will find a way.

John Shea is an MLB writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @real_johnshea. Like him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google.

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