Desperate times call for desperate measures. That statement explains the San Francisco Giants right now. Significantly weaker than their division rivals, the Bay Bombers have been playing catch-up ever since that surprising 107-win season in 2021. With GM Farhan Zaidi directly facing the heat, there is a genuine need for the Giants to make a strong statement. That desperation has brought them to a former World Series MVP.

Despite being linked with Matt Chapman, there is a consensus that the Bay Bombers need to make an explosive addition to their middle-of-the-order bat. While the market currently has two strong contenders for this position, it looks like the Giants have decided who they want to target.

The San Francisco Giants continue their search for a hitter

One of the chief reasons for the Giants’ recent struggles has been the absence of big hitters on their roster. While the Bay Bombers are among the best in the league defensively, their offense leaves a lot to be desired. So obviously, they’ve spent this offseason trying to bolster their hitting lineup. According to the San Francisco Chronicle’s Susan Slusser, the Giants have “had talks” with Jorge Soler.

Slusser clarified that while talks don’t mean a done deal, it is a positive sign. Unlike a few other free agents, Soler wouldn’t cost a fortune. She was quick to point out that the Giants could offer Soler a deal similar to the 2-year $34 million that Rhys Hoskins got from the Milwaukee Brewers. While naming former Dodger J.D. Martinez as a possible candidate, she feels Soler could be a better fit for the Giants.

The lack of power on the Bay Bombers’ roster is staggering. In 2023, apart from Wilmer Flores, no other hitter crossed the 20-home run mark. On the other hand, Soler hit 36 for the Miami Marlins last season. In their endeavor to improve hitting, the Giants have signed Lee Jung-Hoo, but he is more of a contract hitter than a slugger.

So frankly, it becomes obvious why the Giants fancy Soler. Especially as the rest of their division improves, it’s hitting immensely.

How the Bay Bombers are losing the arms race?

The Dodgers have added Shohei Ohtani to their already strong-hitting lineup. The balance of power that was always tilted towards the Blue Crew has completely catapulted towards them now. The Giants have to move quickly or risk falling behind. Since 2016, apart from 2021 and 2022, the Bay Bombers have maintained a losing record in the league. For a team that won three World Series titles in the 2010s, it’s not a good look.

Read more: Giants in for Blake Snell or Matt Chapman? Recent Trade Opens Up Star Possibilities

While Jorge Soler would no doubt improve their hitting, the Giants will need to buckle up in 2024. The reigning NL Champions, the Arizona Diamondbacks, and the Dodgers, both stand on better ground. As a result, times are growing desperate, and the measures need to match them as well.

Watch This Story: Unveiling the Top 5 MLB Icons and Creating Buzz in the Free-Agent Market This Offseason