The San Francisco Giants have made some strategic moves to bolster their roster, acquiring two new players and making one player a free agent. The team has added outfielder Dean and left-handed pitcher Sanmartin, while right-handed pitcher Black has been designated for assignment (DFA'd).
Dean, a 28-year-old outfielder, made a notable impact during the Dodgers' World Series run. Despite only playing in 18 regular-season games, his exceptional defense and speed earned him a spot on their postseason roster. A pivotal moment came in Game 6 against the Blue Jays, where Dean's quick thinking and request for a dead-ball ruling prevented a potential game-tying run, ultimately contributing to the Dodgers' victory and their historic back-to-back championship win.
Although Dean didn't bat during the playoffs, he demonstrated his versatility in the minors. In the Triple-A Oklahoma City, he batted .289 with an impressive .809 OPS, six home runs, and 27 stolen bases in 90 games. This performance showcases his potential as a well-rounded player.
The Giants already have Heliot Ramos and Jung Hoo Lee in their starting outfield spots, but Dean's right-handed hitting ability and competitive spirit make him a strong contender for regular playing time next season. He will join other up-and-coming players like Drew Gilbert, Luis Matos, and Jerar Encarnacion in the race for at-bats.
Sanmartin, a 29-year-old left-handed pitcher, brings valuable experience to the team. He has a 5.66 ERA across 62 appearances (including six starts) over four seasons with the Cincinnati Reds. Although he missed the 2024 season due to Tommy John surgery, he made a successful comeback in September 2025, allowing only one unearned run in 1 2/3 innings against the Blue Jays.
Sanmartin's performance at Triple-A Louisville in 2025 was impressive, with a 2.67 ERA and 55 strikeouts over 67 1/3 innings in 46 appearances. His addition to the Giants' bullpen provides another option for the team to evaluate during Spring Training, joining Erik Miller, Joey Lucchesi, and Matt Gage as left-handed relief options on the 40-man roster.
On the other hand, Black, a 25-year-old right-handed pitcher, has struggled in his recent appearances for the Giants. He has a 6.47 ERA over 10 appearances (including eight starts) over the last two years. In 2025, he posted a 5.81 ERA in 30 outings at Triple-A Sacramento, making his final five appearances out of the bullpen. The Giants have designated him for assignment, allowing him to seek opportunities elsewhere.
These strategic moves demonstrate the Giants' commitment to building a strong and versatile team. With the addition of Dean, Sanmartin, and the evaluation of Black's performance, the team is poised to make a strong showing in the upcoming season.
