The San Francisco Giants entered the MLB Winter Meetings with two rotation spots open — and left with the same situation. But the team believes the answer might come from both veteran signings and a growing pool of young pitchers ready to step up in 2026.
Giants Want More Pitching Depth for 2026
New general manager Zack Minasian made it clear that the Giants want as many starting pitchers as possible.
“We used 15 starters last year. Thinking we’ll only need five would be unrealistic,” Minasian said.
While the front office expects to add experienced pitchers through trades or free agency, they still trust the young talent already in the system. Players like Hayden Birdsong, Blade Tidwell, Trevor McDonald, Kai-Wei Teng, and Carson Whisenhunt are expected to compete for roles in 2026.
Mixed Results From Young Pitchers in 2025
Last season, the Giants expected their young pitching group to play a major role. But while a few players shined — such as Landen Roupp, who became the No. 3 starter — the overall results weren’t as strong as hoped.
Team executive Buster Posey says the opportunity is still there.
Posey: It Depends on Their Performance
“We hope several of them force their way into the rotation or bullpen,” Posey explained. “But everything depends on how they perform.”
Coaching Changes Bring New Hope
The organization believes a fresh coaching staff can help young pitchers take the next step. Three new coaches — Frank Anderson, Justin Meccage, and Christian Wonders — are now part of the pitching development team.
Trevor McDonald Emerging as a Strong Candidate
Of all the young pitchers, Trevor McDonald may be leading the pack after finishing the season with two impressive starts. He gave up only three earned runs in 15 innings, including a standout performance at Dodger Stadium.
Posey said McDonald found success by focusing on his strongest pitches — his sinker and slider — instead of trying to throw everything.
“He settled in and trusted his best stuff,” Posey said.
Giants Staff Earn Multiple Awards
The Winter Meetings were also full of recognition for the Giants’ behind-the-scenes staff.
- Brad Grems and Gavin Cuddie won Clubhouse Manager of the Year awards.
- Former longtime clubhouse manager Mike Murphy was inducted into the MLB Clubhouse Managers Hall of Fame.
- Karen Sweeney won the Katy Feeney Leadership Award.
- Matt Chisholm was honored for excellence in media relations.
It was nearly a clean sweep for the organization.
Competition for Backup Catcher in 2026
The Giants also added another catching option after acquiring Rule 5 pick Daniel Susac, who will compete with Jesus Rodriguez for the backup catcher spot behind Patrick Bailey.
Susac, a former first-round pick, has power and will enter spring training with an advantage since he must stay on the major-league roster or be returned to the A’s.
Rodriguez Could Surprise the Team
Rodriguez, acquired in the Camilo Doval trade, hit .322 at Triple-A and is considered one of the best pure hitters in the minors. However, the Giants are concerned about his limited catching experience.
Posey praised Rodriguez’s communication skills and willingness to guide pitchers but said the team may still explore other catching options.
Could the Giants Carry Three Catchers?
The Giants might keep both young catchers if they play well. Rodriguez also has experience at first base and as a designated hitter, which could be valuable with Wilmer Flores not returning.
Conclusion
The Giants still need proven pitchers for their 2026 rotation, but they believe several young arms could step up and surprise the league. With new coaches and a competitive spring training ahead, the team expects its young pitchers — and catchers — to play an important role in shaping the roster for the new season.
