Giants Rotation Update: Hicks Set for Second Shot
SCOTTSDALE — The Giants are gearing up for a competitive training camp, with a particular focus on the final spots in their rotation. While president of baseball operations Farhan Zaidi and new general manager Zack Minasian have added significant depth, notably with the signing of Justin Verlander, the team remains committed to Jordan Hicks as a starting pitcher. Despite an uneven 2024, Hicks has earned a spot alongside veterans Logan Webb and Robbie Ray, and the Giants are optimistic about his prospects for the upcoming season. The shift from relief to starting was a challenging transition, but Hicks’ dedication and physical improvements have made the coaching staff confident in his abilities.
Offseason Dedication Pays Off
Hicks, a native of Houston, opted to spend his entire winter in San Francisco, utilizing the resources at Oracle Park to build his stamina and prepare for the rigors of a full starting season. His frequent encounters with Posey and Minasian during the offseason have not gone unnoticed. Hicks has bulked up, adding about 15 pounds since the end of last season, with a significant portion of the new muscle in his legs. This physical transformation is aimed at addressing the wear and tear he experienced in the middle of last year, particularly during June and July, when his performance began to dip. "I think he’s much more comfortable and more confident to get where he needs to go this year," manager Bob Melvin said. The extra muscle and improved conditioning should help Hicks reach the 150-inning mark, a goal the Giants believe is within his grasp.
Early Success and Challenges
Hicks’ first year as a starter was a mixed bag, but there were promising signs. He threw 109 2/3 innings, a career-high, with most of them coming as a starter. His velocity waned as the innings accumulated, but when he was physically in top form, he was a significant asset to the rotation. In his first 15 starts, Hicks posted a 2.82 ERA and a 3.70 FIP, delivering five innings or more in 12 of those outings. These early performances have bolstered the Giants’ confidence in his abilities. Melvin emphasized that the transition from relief pitcher to starter is no small feat, and Hicks has taken valuable lessons from his 2024 experience into the 2025 season.
Bullpen Session Standout
While managers are typically wary of singling out early standouts in bullpen sessions, Melvin couldn’t help but be impressed by non-roster invitee Joel Peguero. The right-handed reliever hit 101 mph during his session on Thursday, drawing attention from the coaching staff. Peguero spent the 2024 season in Double-A with the Detroit Tigers and has previously pitched for the Tampa Bay Rays, Colorado Rockies, and Washington Nationals organizations. Although he has yet to make his big league debut, the Giants saw potential in him during winter ball. Despite a 4.69 ERA in the minors and a rough patch in Triple-A in 2023, Peguero’s high-velocity arm and recent focus on command have the Giants intrigued. Melvin noted that Peguero’s ability to stay around the plate in early sessions is a positive sign.
Comprehensive Spanish Broadcast Coverage
The Giants announced a significant enhancement to their Spanish-language broadcasting, agreeing to a new three-year deal with Lazer Media to broadcast all 162 games in Spanish this season. This marks a substantial increase from the 137 Spanish broadcasts they offered in 2024 and represents the first time since 1998 that the Giants have provided comprehensive Spanish coverage for every game. The broadcasts will be handled by a trio of experienced announcers: Erwin Higueros, Tito Fuentes, and Carlos Orellana. This move underscores the team’s commitment to engaging with their diverse fan base and ensuring that Spanish-speaking fans have access to every aspect of the season.
Looking Ahead: Hicks’ Goal and Team Dynamics
For Jordan Hicks, the goal this year is to reach the 150-inning mark, a significant milestone for any starting pitcher. The Giants feel confident in his ability to handle the workload, given his improved physical condition and mental fortitude. Melvin observed that Hicks’ recent bullpens have shown a more deliberate, starter-oriented approach. While Kyle Harrison, Hayden Birdsong, and others will compete for the fifth spot in the rotation, Hicks’ position is secure. His determination to overcome last year’s challenges and the team’s faith in his development suggest a promising season ahead for the young pitcher and the Giants as a whole.
