Giants Counting on Rafael Devers to Power Offense

The slugger acquired in a blockbuster trade is key to San Francisco's hopes of turning around their 2026 season.

Apr. 19, 2026 at 3:18pm by

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After missing out on several marquee free agents in the offseason, the San Francisco Giants turned to acquiring star third baseman Rafael Devers in a trade last year. Devers, one of the most prolific power hitters in baseball over the past decade, got off to a strong start with the Giants, hitting 20 home runs in just 90 games. However, the Giants will need Devers to continue that production if they hope to turn around their fortunes in 2026.

Why it matters

The Giants have struggled to find a consistent power threat in the middle of their lineup since the retirement of Barry Bonds. Devers' arrival was seen as a potential game-changer, but the team will only go as far as the 26-year-old slugger can take them this season.

The details

Devers, who has hit at least 30 home runs in four different seasons, provided an immediate boost to the Giants' offense after being acquired in a trade last year. In just 90 games with the team, he launched 20 home runs and posted a 126 wRC+, showing he could thrive in the pitcher-friendly confines of Oracle Park. However, the Giants will need Devers to maintain that level of production over a full season if they hope to turn around their fortunes in 2026.

  • Devers was acquired by the Giants in a trade last year.
  • In 90 games with the Giants in 2025, Devers hit 20 home runs.

The players

Rafael Devers

A 26-year-old third baseman who is one of the most prolific power hitters in baseball, having hit at least 30 home runs in four different seasons.

Barry Bonds

The legendary Giants slugger who holds the MLB record for most home runs in a season and career.

Willy Adames

A Giants outfielder who hit 30 home runs in his first season with the team, the first time the Giants had a 30-homer hitter in over two decades.

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What they’re saying

“Devers came to town with four campaigns where he's launched at least 30 long balls himself. The Giants did get good returns from Devers, initially.”

— Michael Monreal, Author

The takeaway

The Giants' hopes of turning around their 2026 season rest heavily on the performance of Rafael Devers. As one of the most prolific power hitters in the game, Devers' ability to maintain his production will be crucial for a Giants team that has struggled to find a consistent middle-of-the-order threat since the retirement of Barry Bonds.