SAN FRANCISCO -- As the Giants begin the second half of a lost season, they can take comfort in this: At least their roster situation isn't as bad as it could have been.
The Giants could have been on the hook for Pablo Sandoval's contract. Instead he signed with the Red Sox three years ago. On Friday, the Red Sox designated Sandoval for assignment.
Sandoval signed a five-year, $95 million deal with the Red Sox in 2014 after winning a third title with the Giants. He played 126 bad games for them in 2015, just three in an injury-marred 2016, and just 32 this season. Sandoval was hitting .212 with four homers and a .623 OPS this season at the time of his release.
Sandoval played 161 total games for the Red Sox, hitting .237 with 14 homers. He was worth negative Wins Above Replacement in each of his three seasons in Boston.
Sandoval is still just 30, but he is three years removed from being a productive player. The Red Sox still owe him nearly $50 million and he is a lock to clear waivers.
The Giants said they made a strong push to keep Sandoval in 2014, although over the years it has become clear that some of that was public relations. At the time, the team said it offered a similar deal to Boston's, with an indication that the Giants could stretch up to $100 million if that's what it would take. In the spring of 2014, Sandoval turned down an extension offer believed to be about $85 million over five years. Those familiar with his thinking back then believed it was always his intention to bolt.
The Giants haven't had much success at third base this season, but Eduardo Nuñez is expected to return Friday. In a twist, the Giants could find Boston to be the best trade partner over the next couple of weeks. Nuñez is a free agent after the season.
