Giants’ Aggressive Bid for Nationals’ CJ Abrams Fails: Source
As the San Francisco Giants approach the start of spring training, their attempts to secure a trade for Washington Nationals infielder CJ Abrams have fallen short. The team showed interest in packaging teenage shortstop Josuar Gonzalez but could not reach an agreement with the Nationals.
Giants’ Trade Efforts for CJ Abrams
Major-league sources reveal that the Giants explored including Gonzalez in a trade deal for the 25-year-old Abrams. The Giants emerged from negotiations without acquiring Abrams, who was named an All-Star in 2024. Last season, he recorded a 111 OPS+, hit 19 home runs, and stole 31 bases.
Abrams is set to earn $4.2 million this season and has three years of club control remaining before free agency. Despite the Giants’ efforts, the Nationals are reportedly seeking a more enticing package. The team recently traded left-hander MacKenzie Gore to the Texas Rangers, acquiring five prospects in return.
Prospects Discussed in Trade Talks
- Carson Whisenhunt – Left-hander
- Jacob Bresnahan – Left-hander
- Bo Davidson – Outfielder
- Jhonny Level – Shortstop
Both Davidson and Level are recognized in Baseball America’s latest top-100 prospect list, ranking 87th and 98th respectively. Even if the Giants proposed a deal involving all five discussed players, the Nationals may not have accepted it.
Giants’ Offseason Strategy
This offseason has been challenging for the Giants. They signed pitchers Adrian Houser and Tyler Mahle but made no significant improvements to their position player core, apart from a Rule 5 draft trade to obtain catcher Daniel Susac.
The outfield situation remains unresolved with candidates like Drew Gilbert, Luis Matos, Grant McCray, and Jerar Encarnacion vying for right field. The Giants have not replaced Dom Smith or Wilmer Flores, raising concerns about their designated hitter options as Bryce Eldridge may need more time in the minor leagues.
Potential Free Agent Fits
The Giants are reportedly interested in outfielder Harrison Bader, a strong defender with a good offensive track record. Bader hit 17 home runs and posted a 111 OPS+ last season with the Philadelphia Phillies. However, he is looking for a three-year contract, a request the Giants might be hesitant to fulfill.
Alternatively, the team could consider signing Luis Arraez, a three-time batting champion, who boasts a .317 career batting average but is known for his defensive limitations. The Giants are aware of their need to support key players like Rafael Devers and Matt Chapman without jeopardizing their long-term commitments.
Minor League Prospects
The Giants’ minor league system is among the best in recent years, with four players listed in Baseball America’s top 100 for the first time since 2010. Among these players is Eldridge, who ranks 18th and has been highlighted by executives for his potential impact in the Major Leagues.
In addition to Eldridge, the Giants have several other promising players, including:
- Bresnahan – Left-hander
- Keyner Martinez – Right-hander
- Gavin Kilen – Shortstop
- Dakota Jordan – Outfielder
The organization recently secured the top-ranked international free agent, Venezuelan shortstop Luis Hernandez, with a $5 million signing bonus. Additionally, infielder Parks Harber has drawn trade interest following impressive performances.
Despite their robust farm system and potential, the Giants face challenges in the current trade market. With decisions looming, they must find a solution to enhance their roster as the season approaches.
