The San Francisco Giants have reinforced their pitching depth within the organization by acquiring a seasoned reliever. According to Ari Alexander of KPRC 2, the Giants have inked a minor league deal with Justin Garza, formerly of the Boston Red Sox and Cleveland Guardians.
Garza is set to join the minor league camp, indicating that he is not currently in contention for a spot in the starting rotation on Opening Day. However, the Giants could call upon him from the minor league ranks when the need arises.
Originally drafted by the Guardians in the eighth round of the 2015 draft from California State University – Fullerton, Garza transitioned from a starting pitcher to a bullpen role due to issues with control in recent years.
Over seven minor league seasons, he has posted a 4.66 ERA, 1.37 WHIP, 8.9 K/9, and a 2.16 SO/W ratio. Despite a decent 3.98 ERA in Triple-A over five seasons, Garza’s performance at that level hasn’t translated into major-league success yet.
In his major league stints with the Guardians and Red Sox, Garza has recorded a 5.74 ERA with 46 strikeouts and 30 walks. His most recent major league action occurred in 2023 with Boston, providing him with recent experience against big league hitters.
Garza’s pitching repertoire includes a mid-90s sinker complemented by a cutter, slider, and changeup. While his sinker’s velocity is promising, hitters have been able to elevate it, and his secondary pitches lack above-average effectiveness.
Despite being 29 years old, Garza still has two minor league options remaining, potentially valuable for the Giants if he’s added to the 40-man roster later on. Given the lack of experience among bullpen options on the 40-man roster, Garza could serve as a seasoned alternative in the future.
However, it’s likely Garza will start the 2024 season in Triple-A. Even if he doesn’t crack the Giants’ roster this year, his recent success in Triple-A could benefit a young Sacramento River Cats team, featuring several of the organization’s top prospects.
