The San Francisco Giants have made a huge attempt to improve their pitching staff by signing a four-year, $44 million contract with hard-throwing right-hander Jordan Hicks. This historic transaction represents a watershed moment for the Giants, demonstrating their commitment to improving their roster for the next few seasons.
Hicks, a 27-year-old pitching wonder noted for his high velocity, has spent the majority of his five-year MLB career as a reliever, demonstrating his abilities with the St. Louis Cardinals and the Toronto Blue Jays. However, with this new contract, Hicks could potentially move into a starting role for the Giants, adding a new element to their pitching rotation.
The four-year deal with Hicks signals a substantial commitment from Farhan Zaidi’s Giants front office, since it is the longest contract they have awarded to a free agency pitcher. This move comes after another pitching target, Marcus Stroman, signed a two-year, $37 million contract with the Yankees, emphasizing the competitive nature of MLB free agency.
ESPN’s Jeff Passan was the first to report on Jordan Hicks expected role as a starter for the Giants, indicating a shift in the team’s pitching plan. The Giants are counting on Hicks’ excellent pitching abilities, particularly his impressive fastball, which has been timed at rates of up to 105 mph, to help them improve their performance on the field.
Hicks’ track record indicates his adaptability and effectiveness on the mound, with notable stats including a 2.63 ERA in 25 games as a reliever for the Blue Jays last season. His throwing arsenal, which includes a powerful four-seam fastball and sinker, has proven to be a valuable asset to each team he has played for.
The Giants’ coaching staff confronts the task of maximizing Jordan Hicks potential in his new role, especially with key players like Brian Bannister and Andrew Bailey going on to other teams. Bryan Price, the new pitching coach, and Garvin Alston, the bullpen coach, will focus on Hicks’ growth as a starter in order to enhance his on-field performance.
As Hicks settles into his job with the Giants, the team’s pitching rotation will boast a powerful lineup that includes Logan Webb, Alex Cobb, Robbie Ray, and other talented pitchers. The Giants’ pitching depth will be critical, especially with Cobb and Ray recuperating from injuries, putting further pressure on Hicks to provide outstanding performances on the mound.
The San Francisco Giants’ purchase of Jordan Hicks for $44 million over four years is a significant investment in their pitching staff. Hicks’ promotion to the starting lineup adds a new dimension to the team’s squad, paving the way for an exciting chapter in Giants baseball. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Hicks, who hopes to make a huge impact and help lead the Giants to victory on the field.
ESPN’s Jeff Passan describes signing Hicks as a gamble by the Giants, hoping they can capture his peak performance and present it in a refreshed way.
