The San Francisco Giants return to action Friday night, kicking off a three-game series against the Colorado Rockies following the All-Star break. Sitting just 3.0 games behind the third Wild Card spot in the National League, the Giants have an opportunity to make up ground against a Rockies team they should handle.
A strong performance post-All-Star break could shift their stance towards buying rather than selling. Despite recent discussions of potentially selling, improved play has placed them in a more competitive position.
While outcomes remain uncertain and decisions lie with the front office, seizing opportunities by month’s end appears prudent. Baseball’s unpredictability suggests that any team making the postseason has a chance for success. With a veteran-laden roster, especially if their pitching staff stays healthy, the Giants could make a postseason impact.
To bolster their chances, however, improvements are needed at shortstop, center field, and first base. Among their speculated targets is Vladimir Guerrero Jr., whose power could address several lineup deficiencies, although his current team, the Toronto Blue Jays, might opt to retain him despite their struggles.
Guerrero himself has expressed a strong preference for staying in Toronto, citing his family’s attachment to the city. While he acknowledges the business side of baseball, his sentiment indicates a desire to remain with the Blue Jays.
“I would love to be in Toronto,” Guerrero affirmed. “My family loves Toronto, my kids love Toronto, but at the end of the day, it’s a business. We all need to understand that.”
Understanding Guerrero’s perspective underscores the complexities teams face in pursuing him. Should he become available, his commitment to winning wherever he plays is clear, but his loyalty to Toronto presents a significant consideration for any potential trade.
In the event Toronto opts to retain Guerrero, the Giants will likely explore other avenues to bolster their roster, particularly if they aim to upgrade at first base.