SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — With open spots to fill in the rotation this season, the Giants’ front office guaranteed a combined $13 million to a pair of pitchers who were cut last year.
Less than six months after the Atlanta Braves designated Kevin Gausman for assignment, the Giants paid the free-agent right-hander $9 million to join a staff that lost ace Madison Bumgarner this offseason. Short on left-handed options, the Giants also gave $4 million to southpaw Drew Smyly, who was released by the Rangers in June.
As Smyly (Monday) and Gausman (Tuesday) prepare for their spring training debuts, it’s worth noting their acquisitions are not the type that a team with visions of contending for a World Series make.