San Francisco Giants continue bolstering pitching staff

The San Francisco Giants needed to address their pitching staff. That process began over the weekend and is continuing.

The Giants had signed Sean Manaea to a two year deal worth $25 million on Sunday, with an opt-out clause after the 2023 season. According to Jeff Passan from ESPN, the Giants handed the exact same deal to Ross Stripling on Tuesday.

San Francisco Giants upgrade pitching staff with Ross Stripling

Stripling had typically worked as a swingman prior to last season, splitting time between a long relief role and filling in the rotation when needed. While he performed well in that role, there were questions as to whether or not he would be able to be a long term option as a starting pitcher.

He ended those questions last year. Stripling was forced into a permanent spot in the rotation due to Yusei Kikuchi’s struggles and never looked back. He posted a 3.01 ERA and a 1.020 WHiP over his 134.1 innings, striking out 111 batters with just 20 walks. Opponents posted a .229/.259/.354 batting line against him in 536 plate appearances, hitting just 12 homers.

There is still some uncertainty surrounding Stripling despite those strong numbers. He is going to need to prove that he can replicate that success as a starter. If he can, he will not only give the Giants another piece they desperately need behind Logan Webb, but he could also set himself up for a significant payday next offseason.

The Giants are certainly hoping that is the case. While a strong season would mean that Stripling would exercise his opt-out clause, it would also bring the Giants that much closer to contending for a playoff spot. Stripling and Manaea are not going to bring a postseason berth to San Francisco on their own, but they can be key pieces to that puzzle.

The San Francisco Giants have added another piece to their pitching staff. Ross Stripling is their latest upgrade as they look to contend once more.