The San Francisco Giants had a quieter offseason in free agency, making several under‑the‑radar additions they believe can help them take a step forward in 2026.
Even though the club sold at last year’s trade deadline and ultimately missed the postseason, much of the core remains intact, and there is optimism that this group can be better.
A major part of that optimism comes from the fact that designated hitterRafael Devers will be playing his first full season with the organization after being acquired from the Boston Red Sox last June.
The Giants inherited his entire 10‑year, $313.5 million contract extension, which likely contributed to their limited payroll flexibility this winter.
© Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
With a new coaching staff in place under manager Tony Vitello, this is an important spring for Devers as he looks to build momentum, establish continuity and solidify himself as a true difference‑maker in San Francisco.
On Friday, however, concern surfaced before the Giants’ game against the Los Angeles Dodgers. Devers was initially listed in the starting lineup but was scratched moments before first pitch.
The Giants announced that he was dealing with a tight left hamstring (h/t Alex Pavlovic of NBC Sports Bay Area). This matters because this spring was supposed to be a clean slate for Devers after he battled a significant back injury last season that limited his ability to play the field.
Even so, the Giants are wise to be cautious. His health for Opening Day and the regular season is far more important than any spring training reps.
Giants say Rafael Devers has a tight left hamstring. He was scratched from today’s lineup.
— Alex Pavlovic (@PavlovicNBCS) February 27, 2026
When Devers is on the field, his impact is undeniable. The 29‑year‑old left‑handed slugger is a three‑time All‑Star and two‑time Silver Slugger who remains one of the most dangerous middle‑of‑the‑order bats in the league.
In his 90 games with San Francisco last season, he posted a .236 batting average, .347 on‑base percentage, .807 OPS, 20 home runs and 51 RBIs. The Giants believe those numbers will rise with better health and a full offseason in their system.
Devers is also hoping to find long‑term comfort in San Francisco after his emotional exit from Boston. A healthy, productive 2026 season would go a long way toward strengthening his relationship with the front office and establishing himself as the franchise centerpiece the Giants expect him to be.
Related: Willy Adames Makes Off-Field Decision After First Season With Giants
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Feb 27, 2026, where it first appeared in the MLB section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
