The San Francisco Giants are hoping to make significant changes this winter after two dismal seasons. Trading for All-Star closer Camilo Doval is one of their most important options.
The concept might seem absurd at first glance. Doval led the National League in saves with 39 and finished 60 games last season, making him one of the few bright spots for the Giants. In 67.2 innings, he struck out 87 batters, or 31% of the hitters he faced. He also only gave up three home runs the previous season, one to each of Kyle Schwarber and Bryce Harper, which is understandable and might even be required by rule for a Giants closer.
But aside from Logan Webb, who is unquestionably untouchable, and possibly rising stars Patrick Bailey and Kyle Harrison at catcher, Doval may have the highest trade value on this current team. Here are some theories as to why Doval might be dealt during the offseason.
1. He’s very inexpensive
Doval won’t have free agency for another few years. Not even after the next season is he eligible for arbitration. In exchange for four years of club control, a team trading for Doval would pay a lot less than it would to sign a closer who is a free agent.
In contrast, Edwin Diaz, the closer for the New York Mets, inked a $102 million, five-year contract with them last year. The Boston Red Sox gave Kenley Jansen $32 million over a two-year contract. The Philadelphia Phillies gave Craig Kimbrel $10 million, and the Giants paid Taylor Rogers $33 million over three years to be their best setup arm.
The Giants have stated that they are prepared to invest financial resources in order to make improvements this offseason. If that’s the case, San Francisco would be better off using its financial flexibility to bolster its bullpen rather than focusing on Doval’s minimum salary.
2. Doval is young
Doval doesn’t turn 27 until July, while most of the available closers are much older. Top free-agent closer Josh Hader turns 30 early next season, Kimbrel is 35, David Robertson turns 39 in April, and former Giant Will Smith, winner of three straight World Series titles, is 34. There are few options for a team that’s looking for a long-term solution in the closer role this offseason, and even fewer if that team is not willing to give out at least an eight-figure contract to a reliever.