Giants, Athletics discussed Marco Luciano-for-Sean Murphy trade – NBC Sports Bay Area & California

Following the trade of Sean Murphy from the Athletics to the Atlanta Braves in December, the talented Gold Glove catcher thrived in the National League and earned his first MLB All-Star selection in 2023.

Interestingly, it seems that Murphy’s career could have taken a different path with the San Francisco Giants. According to The Athletic’s Andrew Baggarly, the Giants were actively engaged in trade discussions for Murphy with the Athletics right up until the end. Reportedly, San Francisco was willing to offer infield prospect Marco Luciano in exchange, but the A’s insisted on acquiring Giants pitching sensation Kyle Harrison.

Ultimately, Murphy was traded to the Braves as part of a three-team deal involving the Milwaukee Brewers on December 12, 2022. In return, the Athletics received promising right-handed pitchers Freddy Tarnok and Royber Salinas, left-handed pitcher Kyle Muller, veteran catcher Manny Piña from Atlanta, and outfield prospect Esteury Ruiz from the Brewers. Oakland also sent right-hander Joel Payamps to Milwaukee as part of the transaction.

The Braves wasted no time in securing Murphy’s services, signing him to a lucrative six-year, $73 million contract extension. Murphy proved his worth to Atlanta this season, hitting 21 home runs and posting an impressive .843 OPS, which contributed to the Braves’ success in reaching the 2023 MLB playoffs.

Meanwhile, the Giants struggled with their hitting during a disappointing 2023 campaign. Adding a player like Murphy to their lineup would have undoubtedly bolstered their offensive firepower.

However, the Giants already have rookie catcher Patrick Bailey, who is widely regarded as one of the game’s top young defensive talents with glimpses of offensive potential. Additionally, San Francisco sees Luciano as their future shortstop after his debut in July, while Harrison, who made his debut in August, appears poised to lead the Giants’ rotation alongside Logan Webb for years to come.

While it’s entertaining to imagine Murphy donning the Orange and Black, the past is behind us. The Giants are now focused on their upcoming offseason, which promises to be significant. They are searching for a new manager, and the biggest free-agent target in MLB history is also on their radar.

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