The Giants Make a Bold Move: Signing Injured Reliever Rowan Wick for 2027
The San Francisco Giants have once again surprised the baseball world with a strategic move that might seem unconventional at first glance. Just when you thought they were done with major league signings for the year, they've signed another player, but with a twist: it's not for immediate contribution.
In a move that will undoubtedly spark debate among fans, the Giants have agreed to a Major League contract with right-handed reliever Rowan Wick. The deal is a long-term strategy, as Wick, aged 33, recently underwent Tommy John surgery and will miss the entire 2026 season. However, the contract includes a team option for the 2027 season, which the Giants are expected to exercise, provided there are no injury complications.
The Giants' interest in Wick is understandable, given his potential as a former Major Leaguer who has ventured overseas to rebuild his pitching career. Wick, drafted in the ninth round by the St. Louis Cardinals in 2012, has five years of MLB experience. He made his debut with the San Diego Padres in 2018 and played for the Chicago Cubs from 2019 to 2022, before spending 2023 in the Minor Leagues.
Across 146 appearances and 146 innings, Wick has impressive MLB statistics, including a 3.82 ERA and a 3.49 FIP. His journey to Nippon Professional Baseball in 2024 was a success, as he posted a 2.60 ERA and a 2.74 FIP in his first year. However, it was his 2025 performance that truly stood out: in 40 appearances and 42.2 innings, Wick achieved a remarkable 0.84 ERA and 1.39 FIP, despite not having the best mark in the league.
Wick's standout season was characterized by his ability to stay out of trouble, allowing only 5.3 hits and 2.3 walks per nine innings, resulting in a 0.844 WHIP and no home runs throughout the year. The Giants are optimistic that he can replicate this success when he returns to the MLB. However, the wait for the answer will be prolonged.
To accommodate Wick's signing, the Giants have made a corresponding move by transferring injured reliever Jason Foley to the 60-Day Injured List, creating an open spot on the 40-man roster. This strategic maneuver ensures that the team's roster remains at 39, allowing for further adjustments as the season progresses.
