The San Francisco Giants started with high hopes after adding Rafael Devers from the Boston Red Sox, expecting the star hitter to boost the team’s performance. However, since the trade, the Giants have struggled significantly, with their poor form casting doubt on manager Bob Melvin’s future.
Performance Issues and Injuries Weigh on Team
Since acquiring Devers, the Giants have posted an 18-31 record and suffered a remarkable loss of 14 of 15 games at Oracle Park. Devers himself has faced difficulties, hitting just .221 with only seven home runs. Compounding these problems are injuries to important players like Matt Chapman, as well as an underperforming bullpen and an inconsistent starting rotation.
Management and Tactical Criticism Mount
Some observers argue that Melvin has struggled to integrate Devers effectively or to address ongoing defensive problems, which have led to costly close-game losses. With the Giants falling out of playoff contention, pressure is building on Buster Posey, the team’s president of baseball operations, to make critical decisions regarding Melvin’s position.
Pressure Grows on Bob Melvin’s Role
As reported by Bob Nightengale of USA Today, Posey had initially planned to extend Melvin’s contract but must now reconsider within the next six weeks whether to keep him in charge. Nightengale wrote,
“Just six weeks after San Francisco Giants boss Buster Posey thought it was time to pick up manager Bob Melvin’s $4 million option, he now must decide in these next six weeks whether to fire him,”
highlighting the precarious situation facing the veteran manager.
Giants’ Struggles Draw Attention in Baseball Circles
Nightengale further noted the extent of the Giants’ disappointing season, stating,
“The Giants, who were all in when they jumped the deadline and acquired Rafael Devers and his remaining $232 million from the Boston Red Sox, have become baseball’s most underachieving team.”
He added,
“Their performance, barring a dramatic turnaround, could cost Melvin his job,”
and indicated that former Marlins manager Skip Schumaker could emerge as a top candidate for the managerial vacancy.
Devers’ Arrival Fails to Spark Team Revival
While the trade for Devers was expected to elevate the Giants, the team has instead spiraled downward since his arrival. The coming weeks are crucial, as the organization’s future trajectory may hinge on how the club responds during this period.
Comparison With Boston After Devers’ Departure
Although it would be overly simplistic to blame the Giants’ slide solely on Devers’ struggles, his performance has not matched expectations, and his former team, Boston, has continued to improve. The Red Sox have not only won more games but also generated renewed enthusiasm among fans, who have moved on from Devers faster than anticipated.