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5 San Francisco Giants Who Should Be On the Trading Block Right Now

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5 San Francisco Giants Who Should Be On the Trading Block Right Now

Andrew Susac San Francisco Giants
Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

The three-time world champion San Francisco Giants are scuffling through April on the heels of losing Hunter Pence to injury in spring training. The two glaring gaps that remain in the everyday lineup, including free agent loss Pablo Sandoval, could force the Giants to consider retooling their 25-man roster, even at the season’s earliest stage. Here are five players who should be on the Giants’ trading block right now.

5. Gregor Blanco (OF)

Gregor Blanco San Francisco Giants
Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports

5. Gregor Blanco (OF)

Gregor Blanco San Francisco Giants
Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports

The Giants’ fourth outfielder is an undeniable asset when able to consistently reach base, but Blanco has seldom resembled the caliber of player capable of sustaining a high on-base percentage. Although his trade value is marginal at best, the Giants should consider shopping Blanco in a packaged deal for a more suitable alternative, preferably one with power. The Giants currently lack a true home run threat off the bench.

4. Matt Duffy (UT)

Matt Duffy San Francisco Giants
Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

4. Matt Duffy (UT)

Matt Duffy San Francisco Giants
Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

The “Duffman” has been one of the Giants’ most reliable hitters in the early-going. Go figure, for a guy who was prematurely promoted during the dog days of the 2014 season and has somehow managed to contribute at an above average level. Duffy, a former 18th-round pick, might never flaunt more trade value than he does right now. He's slashed a respectable .281/.333/.438 batting line with three extra-base hits in 37 plate appearances this season.

3. George Kontos (RHP)

George Kontos San Francisco Giants
Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports

3. George Kontos (RHP)

George Kontos San Francisco Giants
Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports

The Giants are flawed in multiple facets, but the bullpen remains one of the best in baseball. Manager Bruce Bochy opted to carry eight bullpen arms at the start of the season in part because Kontos is out of options. To the delight of the Giants’ front office, Kontos has pitched extremely well in extensive action and could soon be dealt. The right-hander has allowed just eight base runners in 10.2 innings of work while striking out seven.

2. Yusmeiro Petit (RHP)

Yusmeiro Petit San Francisco Giants
Brad Mangin/Getty Images

2. Yusmeiro Petit (RHP)

Yusmeiro Petit San Francisco Giants
Brad Mangin/Getty Images

The notion of trading Petit, a long-reliever/spot starter who pitched outrageously well in the ‘14 postseason, might not sit well with most Giants fans, but Petit’s unique skill set makes him valuable on the open market. If veteran Ryan Vogelsong, who signed a $ 4 million deal over the offseason, is able to prove himself capable in the bullpen, Petit becomes expendable. That might not be realistic, though, considering Vogelsong's struggles.

1. Andrew Susac (C)

Andrew Susac San Francisco Giants
Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports

1. Andrew Susac (C)

Andrew Susac San Francisco Giants
Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports

The Giants currently boast three catchers on their roster, including Susac, who has quickly become a fan favorite despite relinquishing backup catcher duties to Hector Sanchez in spring training. Susac is highly-touted because of his offensive potential and could help form an enticing early-season trade package to a team unfit to contend. Susac entered the 2015 season as the 46th best prospect in baseball, according to ESPN's Keith Law.

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