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The Giants have reached an agreement with free agent outfielder Jock Pederson. John Morosi of MLB Network reports. Per John Heymanit is a $6 million annual deal.
Pederson, a Bay Area native who turns 30 in April, is finishing the 2021 season in which he hit .238/.310/.422 with 18 home runs in 137 games for the Cubs and Braves. While his numbers generally declined last season, Pederson was a big part of the Braves in what turned out to be Atlanta’s championship season. In his career, Pederson has an OPS+ of 112 in eight MLB seasons, seven of which have been with the Dodgers.
In addition to being able to play both in the extreme corners of the field and occasionally play in the center as a last resort, Pederson boasts good left-hand strength at the plate. During his career, he hit a .237/.341/.490 slash against right-handers, with 137 of 148 home runs hitting the opposing side.
The Giants amassed 107 wins last season to win the NL West title, thanks in part to impressive roster depth and manager Gabe Kapler’s ability to put the skills to good use. In that sense, Pederson and his platoon skills are well suited to San Francisco. DH’s presence in the National League should also give Pederson more opportunities for playing time.