San Francisco Giants Sign Luis Arráez: A Look at the Infield Shake-Up and Payroll Impact
Luis Arráez has signed a one-year contract with the San Francisco Giants in free agency, worth $12 million. He is expected to switch to second base with the Giants after spending most of his time at first base with the San Diego Padres. The Giants' updated roster now includes Arráez, Rafael Devers, Willy Adames, and Matt Chapman in the infield.
The Giants had a projected cash payroll of just under $195 million, ranking 11th in MLB before the trade. They had $7.8 million in space between the luxury tax line before the trade and would be taxed over that threshold at 20 percent as a first-time payor.
Arráez had a solid season with the Padres, hitting eight home runs and 61 RBI while slashing .292/.327/.392. Despite a career-worst batting average, he played a key role as the Padres finished 90-72 with a wild card exit to the Chicago Cubs. This marks the fourth club Arráez will have played for in his eight-year career.
Arráez made his debut for the Minnesota Twins in 2019 and stayed with them for four seasons, establishing himself as one of the most consistent hitters in the majors. He was traded to the Miami Marlins ahead of the 2023 season and had a career-best season with them, winning a Silver Slugger and a batting champ title. The Marlins then traded him to the Padres in 2024.
Now, Arráez is joining the Giants and will aim to reestablish himself as a Silver Slugger and batting champ candidate with his new team.