
The SF Giants are navigating a tricky roster situation as spring training unfolds. With Randy Rodríguez, Jason Foley, and Rowan Wick all moved to the 60-day injured list, the Giants have exhausted this particular roster flexibility for now.
As any seasoned fan knows, injuries are par for the course during spring training, and teams often face a roster logjam as Opening Day approaches. It’s a time when the waiver wire buzzes with activity, as teams attempt to sneak players through to maintain depth.
For the Giants, the end of camp might necessitate freeing up a spot or two on the 40-man roster. Michael Fulmer, Gregory Santos, and Eric Haase are among the non-roster players in camp, all bringing major league experience to the table.
Interestingly, none of these non-roster invitees have an automatic opt-out clause in their contracts. This clause typically applies to players with over six years of service time who ended the previous season on a major league roster. While Fulmer has the service time, he finished last season on a minor league deal with the Mariners, so this rule doesn’t apply to him or his fellow invitees.
In recent years, the automatic opt-out has been a tool for players to secure a major league roster spot. Lou Trivino, for instance, leveraged this to earn a spot on the Giants’ Opening Day roster last year after a strong camp performance.
As spring training progresses, the Giants might need to create additional roster space for standout non-roster players. The bullpen, in particular, is shaping up to be a competitive area, with several pitchers vying for a spot on the Opening Day roster.
Additionally, the Giants have players like Luis Matos and Jerar Encarnación, who are out of minor league options. Their performance this spring will be crucial in securing their places on the team.
For now, with the 60-day injured list fully utilized, the Giants will need to explore other avenues to manage their roster effectively as they prepare for the season ahead.