As one of the most important offseasons in recent franchise history comes to a close, Giants’ players and coaches are hoping to ride a wave of momentum into Spring Training created following several offseason splashes.
Though general manager Bobby Evans’ pursuit of 2017 National League MVP Giancarlo Stanton and two-way Japanese superstar Shohei Ohtani came up short, the Giants executed a pair of blockbuster trades as Evans dealt for Tampa Bay Rays third baseman Evan Longoria and Pittsburgh Pirates outfielder Andrew McCutchen.
After setting sail for the offseason in the wake of a 64-98 campaign featuring the Giants’ first last-place finish since 2007, Evans and vice president of baseball operations Brian Sabean are hoping an expanded veteran core has the experience and skill set needed to navigate the rough waters that stand in the way of San Francisco and a playoff berth.