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The San Francisco Giants<\/a> had a quieter offseason in free agency, making several under\u2011the\u2011radar additions they believe can help them take a step forward in 2026. <\/p>\n Even though the club sold at last year\u2019s trade deadline and ultimately missed the postseason, much of the core remains intact, and there is optimism that this group can be better. <\/p>\n A major part of that optimism comes from the fact that designated hitter<\/a>Rafael Devers<\/a> will be playing his first full season with the organization after being acquired from the Boston Red Sox<\/a> last June. <\/p>\n The Giants inherited his entire 10\u2011year, $313.5 million contract extension, which likely contributed to their limited payroll flexibility this winter.<\/p>\n © Eakin Howard-Imagn Images<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n 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\u2011maker in San Francisco.<\/p>\n On Friday, however, concern surfaced before the Giants\u2019 game against the Los Angeles Dodgers<\/a>. Devers was initially listed in the starting lineup but was scratched moments before first pitch. <\/p>\n 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. <\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n Giants say Rafael Devers has a tight left hamstring. He was scratched from today\u2019s lineup.<\/p>\n — Alex Pavlovic (@PavlovicNBCS) February 27, 2026<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n When Devers is on the field, his impact is undeniable. The 29\u2011year\u2011old left\u2011handed slugger is a three\u2011time All\u2011Star and two\u2011time Silver Slugger who remains one of the most dangerous middle\u2011of\u2011the\u2011order bats in the league. <\/p>\n In his 90 games with San Francisco last season, he posted a .236 batting average, .347 on\u2011base 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.<\/p>\n Devers is also hoping to find long\u2011term 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.<\/p>\n Related: Willy Adames Makes Off-Field Decision After First Season With Giants<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n This story was originally published by Athlon Sports<\/a> on Feb 27, 2026, where it first appeared in the MLB<\/a> section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.<\/a><\/i><\/p>\n\n