Giants Notes: Alfonso Soriano To San Francisco At Last?

Alfonso Soriano was designated for assignment on Sunday by the New York Yankees.

The Yankees now have 10 days to either trade, release or waive the former All-star left fielder.

This could be an opportunity for the Giants to add some much needed power off the bench for relatively cheap.

The numbers aren't good – a .221 average with just six home runs and 23 RBI's – but adding a hitter with Soriano's power potential off the bench is a priority for the Giants.

If Soriano passes through waivers unclaimed – and his current $18 million annual salary suggests he will – any team can sign him for the league minimum contract.

That stacks up in the Giants favor: minimal investment for a potentially moderate return.

Granted, Soriano's days as a starter are likely behind him, but that's not what the team needs him for anyway.

He would represent a solid upgrade as a late-inning option off the bench, as well as an adequate fill-in when Michael Morse needs a day off.

San Francisco lacks pop off the bench – Gregor Blanco, Joaquin Arias, Juan Perez, Joe Panik, and Tyler Colvin have combined for two home runs total.

Serving as the only backup catcher, the availability of Hector Sanchez hinges on the scenario of the game, meaning he can't be used as a one-and-done pinch-hitter on most occasions.

Brandon Hicks is about the only viable power threat, and his spot on the roster may not last long enough to contribute even that.

Sure, Soriano previously said he didn't want to play in San Francisco because of the cold weather, but now that he's out of a job, the 38-year-old slugger may not be so selective about where he suits up the rest of the year.

All things considered, the Giants should be eyeing Soriano rather intently.

These are the kind of acquisitions Brian Sabean has thrived on over the last few years – think Pat Burrell, Aubrey Huff, Cody Ross, etc.

While his addition isn't going to be a make-or-break move, it will bolster a roster that is in a dogfight for the NL West.

If the Giants win just one extra game because of his bat, it may be the difference between a division crown, a one-game playoff, or watching the post-season from home.

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