San Francisco, CA – Matt Chapman, considered one of the premier defensive infielders in baseball, has reached an agreement with the San Francisco Giants for a lucrative three-year, $54 million contract. Sources have confirmed this deal to be comparable to the structure of Cody Bellinger’s recent re-signing with the Chicago Cubs, with opt-outs after the first and second years.
Chapman, who will be turning 31 in April, joins the Giants after winning his fourth Gold Glove Award in 2023 while playing for the Toronto Blue Jays. Known for his exceptional defensive skills, Chapman ranks first in defensive runs saved and third in outs above average at his position since the start of the 2018 season.
Despite his defensive prowess, some talent evaluators have expressed reservations about Chapman’s offensive performance, particularly his low batting average and high strikeout rate over the past few seasons. As he struggled offensively in the 2023 season, hitting only .205 after a strong start, evaluators noted his difficulties against fastballs.
The Giants, who have faced challenges in signing top free agents in recent years, are hoping that Chapman’s addition will bolster their lineup. With a strong pitching staff expected, including standout pitcher Logan Webb, the Giants are looking to build a competitive team for the upcoming season.
Chapman’s deal with the Giants marks a significant move in the MLB free agency market, as teams are positioning themselves for success in the upcoming season. With the addition of a player of Chapman’s caliber, the Giants are aiming to strengthen their roster and make a push for the playoffs in the highly competitive National League.