Now that Denard Span has been traded, it sure seems like the San Francisco Giants need to sign at least two everyday outfielders in free agency this offseason. Giants broadcaster Mike Krukow isn’t so sure, however, as he detailed on Murph & Frandsen Thursday morning.
When asked about San Francisco’s interest in speedy centerfielder Billy Hamilton, Krukow voiced his concern about Hamilton’s below average numbers at the plate, (.247/.299/.335) even though he would undoubtably be an upgrade defensively. Instead, Krukow detailed a scenario where the Giants fill one of the corner outfield spots with a slugger like free agent Jay Bruce, and throw a defensive specialist like prospect Stephen Duggar in center.
“If you get a guy like Jay Bruce, that lengthens out your lineup, you’re just looking for somebody to get on base at the top of the lineup,” Krukow said. “That means you could eat a position in the lineup with a guy like Stephen Duggar. I haven’t seen him play centerfield but they say he can go get it. Well, why not get a guy on the cheap if you can get a defensive player out there and let him learn to hit at the big league level in the eighth spot. That’s an availability, and it all depends on who they get to continue to make that lineup longer and better, and I don’t think they’re close to being anywhere done yet.”
Krukow also believes that someone like Bruce makes more sense than the likes of Royals centerfielder Lorenzo Cain, who the Giants would have to give up multiple draft picks for, as Cain turned down a qualifying offer from Kansas City. They would be under no such obligation if they signed Bruce.
“Jay Bruce makes sense,” Krukow said. “If you get Jay Bruce you don’t have to give up a second and a fifth round pick and a million bucks in the international pool. I think the next move that they make is going to dictate what they do in center.”
Listen to the full interview below. To hear Krukow’s comments on Bruce, skip to 4:40.