The San Francisco Giants are eyeing second base as a potential area for improvement this winter. While their primary focus is on starting pitching and upgrading the outfield, the team is also considering adding a new second baseman. Among the players they're considering are Nico Hoerner, Brendan Donovan, Ketel Marte, and Brandon Lowe. Hoerner, a former Stanford shortstop from Oakland, is a popular trade target for teams and has been connected to the Cubs and Diamondbacks. Marte, a 32-year-old three-time All-Star, is signed for another six years at $102.5 million, making a deal unlikely. Lowe, a two-time All-Star, is in his final year before free agency and will earn $11.5 million. Both Hoerner and Lowe can play multiple positions, including the outfield. The Giants are also considering Donovan, an All-Star and Gold Glove winner who hit .287 last year and has plenty of outfield experience. However, the free-agent market for second-base types is less robust than the trade market, and the Giants may turn to Luis Rengifo, who hit .300 in 2024 and was a surprising Gold Glove finalist last year. The team hasn't soured on current second baseman Casey Schmitt, who is under team control through 2029 and could be a potential trade target for any club moving an infielder.
