Most of the rumors surrounding the Giants and the trade deadline have been regarding adding depth to the backend of the bullpen, but it appears the Giants are also looking to add a bat to the roster.
The most recent name being thrown into the mix is Tampa Bay Rays utility man Steve Pearce.
Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times is reporting the Giants are interested in acquiring the 33-year-old. Pearce is in his 10th MLB season and has been a bright spot in a down year for the Rays. In 58 games, Pearce is hitting .312 with 10 home runs and 29 RBI. What has been most impressive about Pearce’s season is his .912 OPS. The Giants are not the only team interested in the veteran, though, which may force San Francisco to give up slightly more than they may want.
Been reporting #Indians and #Giants as most interested in Pearce https://t.co/cUCxW6fyNS
— Marc Topkin (@TBTimes_Rays) July 28, 2016
This season, Pearce has been used primarily at first base, but can also play outfield, as well as second and third. Pearce can bolster the Giants’ bench, as well as provide more insurance in case Matt Duffy and Joe Panik suffer further setbacks or injuries.
Jon Heyman of FanRag Sports is also reporting the Giants have shown a liking to Minnesota Twins infielder Eduardo Nunez, who is hitting .300 this season with 12 home runs and 47 RBI. Nunez is an above average defender and has split time between shortstop, third base and second base this season. He would provide the Giants with a strong bat off the bench, or could also be used at third base with Duffy continuing to rehab his foot injury.