Breaking down how international free agents Yamamoto, Lee, and Imanaga are a perfect fit for the Giants

How international free agents Yamamoto, Lee, Imanaga fit with Giants

originally appeared on
NBC Sports Bay Area

The Giants are determined to find

significant upgrades to their roster

this offseason and will likely be highly interested in top-of-the-market free agents.

San Francisco’s main needs, aside from two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani, are top-of-the-rotation starting pitching and an upgrade in center field. Although the Giants may pursue free agents like Blake Snell, Sonny Gray, and Cody Bellinger, they may consider addressing these needs through the international free-agent market.

Here’s how the three top international free agents fit with the Giants.

RHP Yoshinobu Yamamoto

Outside of Ohtani, Yamamoto is the standout this offseason. The 25-year-old ace has an impressive résumé in Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball league (NPB) making him the center of attention for many MLB teams. In seven NPB seasons, Yamamoto has posted dominant numbers while showcasing an array of pitches.

…

CF Jung Hoo Lee

While Bellinger is the top free-agent center fielder this offseason, Lee might be the perfect fit for the Giants. San Francisco scouts have shown keen interest in Lee, appreciating his prowess on both sides of the ball.

…

LHP Shota Imanaga

Imanaga, often overshadowed by Yamamoto but certainly an intriguing option, is a 30-year-old left-handed pitcher with solid command and experience in Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball league (NPB). He might be another valuable addition to the Giants’ roster as they continue to bolster their pitching staff.

…

Download and follow the Giants Talk Podcast