Giants Designate Nick Ahmed for Assignment
The San Francisco Giants announced Tuesday afternoon that they are cutting ties with shortstop Nick Ahmed. The 34-year-old infielder inked a minor league deal during spring training. Ahmed made the Opening Day roster, replacing longtime Giants shortstop Brandon Crawford.
Similar to Crawford, Ahmed’s value comes in the field. Ahmed spent 10 seasons in the National League West with the Arizona Diamondbacks, anchoring their defense. The Diamondbacks released Ahmed before making their postseason run last fall.
Much like Austin Slater, whom the Giants traded to the Cincinnati Reds two days prior, Ahmed has struggled offensively. He has batted .232 with a .581 OPS and .303 slugging percentage in 52 games with the Giants in 2024, good for a –0.2 WAR.
Internal Replacement Options
For now, the Giants currently have three options on the active roster that can platoon until there’s an everyday starter. Tyler Fitzgerald will start Tuesday against the Toronto Blue Jays. Middle infielder Brett Wisely should get significant playing time, given his play as of late. Second baseman Thairo Estrada also gives the Giants depth at the position.
Marco Luciano sits in the No. 3 spot in the Giants’ Top Prospect Rankings by MLB.com. The 22-year-old shortstop has only played in 24 games at the major league level, playing in 10 games while Ahmed dealt with injury. His offensive potential shone in limited action, but his defensive paralysis was a problem, specifically late in ballgames.
External Replacement Options
A popular rumor that has circulated as the trade deadline approaches is a trade for Blue Jays shortstop Bo Bichette. The Blue Jays begin a three-game set with the Giants Tuesday night. Both Bichette and the Blue Jays are in the midst of down years. A trade would likely involve Luciano.
The Giants have also been linked to Miami Marlins IF/OF Jazz Chisholm Jr. His defensive versatility and ability to play multiple positions could be intriguing to the Giants. The Marlins are expected to be sellers, having sent Luis Arraez to the San Diego Padres earlier this year.
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