SAN FRANCISCO – The Giants liked Nori Aoki and appreciated what he was able to contribute when healthy last season. But they aren’t ready to commit to him yet.
The club declined its $5.5 million option on Aoki, and in an expected move, also declined to bring back outfielder Marlon Byrd for $8 million. Aoki instead receives a $700,000 buyout and becomes a free agent.
Giants GM Bobby Evans said he hasn’t ruled out re-signing Aoki later this offseason. But picking up his option “could encumber our flexibility” as the club both seeks to stockpile available funds to go after high-profile starting pitchers while also keeping open some intriguing trade possibilities to address the outfield.