Welcome back to Top of the Order, where every Tuesday and Friday I’ll be starting your baseball day with some news, notes, and thoughts about the game we love. Scott Boras clients rarely pass up free agency, but Matt Chapman’s decision to sign an extension with the Giants is one of those rare cases. After initially signing a three-year deal for $54 million with opt-outs, Chapman’s performance this season led to a lucrative six-year, $151 million contract with the team.
Chapman’s extension solidifies the Giants’ core, which includes promising players like Logan Webb, Patrick Bailey, and LaMonte Wade Jr. The team also has several key players under contract for next season, such as Robbie Ray, Jordan Hicks, and Taylor Rogers. However, the Giants are facing the potential departure of players like Blake Snell, Michael Conforto, and Mark Canha in free agency.
Despite these challenges, the Giants have significant payroll flexibility to address their roster needs. With Chapman’s new deal factored in, the team’s luxury tax payroll for 2025 is projected to be around $136 million, leaving room for significant signings. The Giants will need to address their lack of power hitting, as they have not had a player hit 30 or more home runs in nearly 20 years.
The upcoming free agent class offers several power hitters who could address this need, including Juan Soto, Anthony Santander, Pete Alonso, and Teoscar Hernández. Adding a left-handed bat like Soto or Santander could complement the Giants’ lineup well. In addition to power hitting, the Giants will also need to consider their starting rotation, with Logan Webb being a standout performer this season.
With several young pitchers in the mix, the Giants have options to fill out their rotation. However, the team may look to replace impending free agent Blake Snell to maintain a strong pitching staff. The front office will have a significant budget to work with this offseason, as they navigate potential signings and extensions that could shape the team’s future beyond 2025. Chapman’s extension is just the beginning of what promises to be a critical offseason for the Giants.
