How Giants should address rotation after frustrating 2023 approach

How Giants should address rotation after frustrating 2023 approach

originally appeared on

NBC Sports Bay Area

The San Francisco Giants’ starting rotation during the 2023 MLB season was as unpredictable as the team’s performance.

There were occasions when the team only had two true starting pitchers in the rotation. Although the opener strategy can be effective, relying on bullpen games multiple times a week is problematic.

The

Giants enter a critical offseason

under pressure to upgrade the roster with top-of-the-rotation starting pitching for the 2024 season. President of baseball operations Farhan Zaidi has made it clear that the team will prioritize this need. The Giants are expected to pursue premier pitchers in the

free-agent

and

trade markets
.

Here’s an analysis of the current status of the Giants’ rotation and the potential role of each pitcher for the next season.

Locks

Logan Webb: The leader of the staff and a finalist for the NL Cy Young Award. He’s expected to command the top spot in the rotation, regardless of any offseason acquisitions.

Alex Cobb: There is no doubt that Alex Cobb will be part of the Giants’ rotation next season. However, he might not retain the No. 2 position after offseason hip surgery. With the Giants targeting top-of-the-rotation arms, Cobb may step back a spot upon his return.

Looking good

Kyle Harrison: The rookie displayed his potential last season but still has room for development. Harrison is expected to be a significant part of the Giants’ rotation in 2024, making at least 20 to 25 starts.

Ross Stripling: The veteran righty has secured his place with the Giants. His usage in the 2024 season will depend on the team’s strategy.

Depth options

Tristan Beck: With a solid performance in the previous season, Beck is likely to continue as a versatile arm for the Giants. He will be in contention for a traditional role in 2024.

Keaton Winn: Winn showed potential but may still need to prove himself further to secure a more prominent role within the rotation.

Time to move on

Anthony DeSclafani: Given his performance in the previous season, DeSclafani may not factor into the Giants’ rotation plans for the upcoming season.

The Giants intend to adopt a more reliable approach to the rotation in the 2024 season, adapting from the challenges faced in 2023. Consistency and predictability are essential for the fan base. The team aims to secure a potential co-ace to pair with Logan Webb and is expected to make aggressive moves during the offseason to achieve this goal.

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