The San Francisco Giants were eager to see their projected starting outfield back together after the return of Heliot Ramos, Jung Hoo Lee, and Harrison Bader from the World Baseball Classic. But those plans have been temporarily put on hold.

The Giants announced Friday that Bader is dealing with left hamstring tightness and is currently considered day to day. Despite the setback, manager Tony Vitello remains optimistic the Gold Glove center fielder will be ready for Opening Night.

According to Giants beat reporter Maria Guardado of MLB.com, Vitello noted that Bader is progressing well physically, even if the outfielder himself is eager to return sooner. The manager described Bader as highly competitive and reluctant to leave the field, a mindset the club views as a positive heading into the regular season.

In Bader’s absence, Luis Matos drew the start in center field during a split-squad contest against the Kansas City Royals at Scottsdale Stadium. Matos, who is out of minor-league options, is making a strong late push for a roster spot — especially after top prospect Bryce Eldridge was reassigned to Triple-A Sacramento.

With the Giants set to open the season against left-hander Max Fried and the New York Yankees, roster construction could favor right-handed bats like Matos and Jerar Encarnacion. Both players are out of options and remain firmly in the mix for backup outfield roles.

The competition doesn’t stop there. Will Brennan and Drew Gilbert bring left-handed balance, though Gilbert has been slowed by a shoulder issue. Meanwhile, non-roster invitee Jared Oliva has turned heads with his speed, piling up stolen bases and emerging as a potential bench weapon.

Another standout this spring was Victor Bericoto, who earned the organization’s Barney Nugent Award for his breakout performance in camp. Though reassigned to Minor League camp, Bericoto impressed with both power and consistency, positioning himself as a potential call-up later this year.

Vitello credited winter ball for helping the young outfielder take a significant step forward, noting his work ethic and readiness for the next level.

On the pitching side, right-hander Gregory Santos also returned to Minor League camp after limited Spring action, though his high-velocity arsenal could still earn him a role in the bullpen at some point this season.

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