Giants Head into Spring Training with Questions at DH, Closer

New manager Tony Vitello and his coaching staff will be under the microscope as the team looks to fill key roster spots.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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The San Francisco Giants head into spring training with several questions to answer, including who will be their designated hitter and closer. New manager Tony Vitello and his coaching staff will also be closely watched as they take over the team. The Giants have a crowded outfield and bullpen competition, with prospects like Bryce Eldridge and Jerar Encarnacion vying for roster spots. The team will also be impacted by players leaving for the World Baseball Classic, including Logan Webb, Harrison Bader, and Luis Arráez.

Why it matters

The Giants are looking to bounce back after a disappointing season, and the decisions made this spring will set the tone for the 2026 campaign. Vitello's leadership and the team's ability to fill key holes will be crucial as they aim to return to the playoffs.

The details

The Giants have several position battles to sort out, including at designated hitter and closer. Ryan Walker is looking to reclaim the closer role after a tough 2025 season, while prospects like Eldridge and Encarnacion are competing for the DH spot. The team's bullpen as a whole is also a mystery, with young pitchers like Hayden Birdsong potentially getting a look. In the outfield, Matos, Encarnacion, Gilbert, and McCray are vying for reserve roles.

  • Pitchers and catchers report on Monday, February 10, 2026.
  • The first full squad workout is on Sunday, February 16, 2026.
  • The Giants' first Cactus League game is on February 21, 2026 against the Mariners.
  • The Giants will host Team USA on March 3, 2026.
  • Spring training wraps up on March 21, 2026.

The players

Tony Vitello

The Giants' new manager with no previous pro experience, who will be under intense scrutiny as he takes over the team.

Ryan Walker

The Giants' closer two years ago who is looking to reclaim the role after a tough 2025 season.

Bryce Eldridge

The Giants' top prospect who has a strong chance of earning a spot on the Opening Day roster, especially with the DH role open.

Jerar Encarnacion

A power-hitting outfielder who is out of options and likely to be in the mix for the DH and reserve outfield roles.

Hayden Birdsong

A young pitcher who could be in the mix for a bullpen spot, especially if he's skipped over for the rotation.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

The Giants' spring training will be closely watched as they look to fill key roster spots and establish a new identity under manager Tony Vitello. The team's ability to develop young talent and solidify their bullpen will be crucial as they aim to return to the playoffs in 2026.