The Giants will release utility infielder Gordon Beckham from his minor league contract according to a report from MLB Trade Rumors.
Beckham’s release is somewhat surprising considering the shoulder issue to third baseman Eduardo Nunez, that is likely to keep him out for at least a few days. Beckham was due to earn a $100,000 retention bonus on March 28. The clearing out of Beckham, combined with Nunez’s injury, makes the likelihood of impressive Korean third baseman Jae-gyun Hwang making the team a stronger possibility. Conor Gillaspie remains the overwhelming favorite to backup Nunez.
The Giants acquired Beckham in a trade in late September of last season, as a fill in option for Nunez who was dealing with a hamstring injury. Beckham had just three at-bats with the Giants, and had a paltry .217 average with the Braves before his trade in 2016.
Beckham, 30, has never once finished a season with an OPS above .700 (considered average) in his eight year career. Beckham was drafted eighth overall by the White Sox in 2008 and was once considered the best prospect in their organization.