Buster Posey will be back with San Francisco Giants in 2022
By David Hill
It had seemed likely that the San Francisco Giants and Buster Posey would continue their relationship beyond this season. Posey has had a resurgent 2021 campaign, leading to the Giants’ rumored willingness to consider moving top prospect Joey Bart in the right package. While nothing came of such rumors, just the fact that it was possible spoke to his future with the organization.
Therefore, it is no surprise that the Giants will be bringing Posey back in 2022. According to Jon Heyman, Posey will remain in San Francisco for the upcoming season, even if that means picking up his $22 million option.
#SFGiants intend to bring Buster Posey back, which means they will bring him back, something that should surprise no one. If they must, they will surely pick up his $22M option, but more likely, they will work out a multiyear deal, as they did with Brandon Crawford. @MLBNetwork
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) August 17, 2021
San Francisco Giants keeping Buster Posey
It was fair to wonder what the Giants would get from Posey this season. He had a career worst 83 OPS+ in 2019, and then opted out of the 2020 campaign. With two seasons since he had been one of the better hitting catchers in the game, and at 34 years old, he appeared to be on the downside of his career.
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Instead, that year off worked wonders. Posey has re-emerged as a force behind the plate, producing his best season since he was named the NL MVP in 2012. He has put together an impressive .325/.418/.540 batting line in his 318 plate appearances, hitting 15 homers and 14 doubles.
Posey has been solid defensively as well. He is tied with J.T. Realmuto with seven runs saved behind the plate, that time off rejuvenating more than his bat. While his 24% caught stealing rate may be below league average, his offensive resurgence more than makes up for that aspect of his game.
As the Giants recently signed Brandon Crawford to a two year extension, it would not be a surprise if San Francisco did something similar with Posey. As Posey has also spent time at first over his career, he could slide over after this season considering that Brandon Belt is also expected to become a free agent. This would open a spot for Bart if he is considered ready; otherwise, Posey can remain in his accustomed spot behind the plate.
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The San Francisco Giants are committed to keeping Buster Posey for 2022. It would not be a surprise if that relationship lasted longer.