Gregor Blanco knew he wouldn’t return as a Giant this season. There’s a good chance he’ll see his former teammates often, though.
Blanco is leaving the Giants but staying in the NL West, after signing a minor league contract with the Arizona Diamondbacks on Tuesday. The deal includes an invitation to major league camp, where Blanco will seek a backup role behind center fielder A.J. Pollock.
Blanco also could see time in a platoon in left field with Brandon Drury, especially if Socrates Brito – another left-handed hitter – isn’t deemed ready to begin in the big leagues.