Giants pressed to retain three-time Cy Young winner over the winter

Jared Bloom

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Giants pressed to retain three-time Cy Young winner over the winter image

Going into the offseason, the San Francisco Giants had a pressing concern. They needed to decide who would become the club's next manager after the front office dismissed Bob Melvin, who had a year left on his contract. 

However, they were quick to make their decision in hiring Tony Vitello. Although he has no experience in the major leagues, he has served as the head coach for the University of Tennessee since 2018, helping them win an NCAA championship in 2024. 

Now the front office can turn its attention to filling some holes and putting out a better product for the 2026 season. They have some holes in their starting rotation, in the outfield, and could use a stable second baseman. 

Giants pressed to retain three-time Cy Young winner over the winter

One of these holes could be filled easily, as there will be plenty of starting pitchers to look at on the open market. But if they want to fill multiple holes, many of these top names might not be in the club's price range. 

One pitcher who will not cost much over the winter will be Justin Verlander. He is already familiar with the organization, and Bleacher Report's Kerry Miller believes he should be their focus. 

"Verlander might have enough left in the tank for one final ride of his own. If he does plan on pitching one more year, San Francisco better at least try to bring him back, as Logan Webb and Robbie Ray are the only sure things in this 2026 rotation."

The only problem is his age. He will come into the 2026 season at the age of 43, but has not mentioned anything about retiring. He still likely has enough left to finish off his career in style, and that should be in San Francisco.

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Staff Writer