The San Francisco Giants need to improve more than the top of their roster. Their most important offseason needs also include pitchers capable of covering unexpected innings, dependable infield coverage and a bench that provides useful alternatives.

Randal Grichuk is a free agent who could give San Francisco an outfielder or designated hitter with right-handed power against left-handed pitching.

Grichuk hit .287/.314/.566 with 15 home runs, 46 RBIs and an .880 OPS in 117 games with the New York Yankees and Chicago White Sox this season.

He was particularly productive against left-handed pitching, hitting .327/.371/.655 in 165 at-bats.

However, Grichuk produced a .220/.216/.420 line in 100 at-bats against right-handed pitchers. That considerable difference makes a selective assignment essential for any team interested in signing him.

For a Giants lineup featuring several left-handed bats, Grichuk would provide corner-outfield starts and a pinch-hitting option against opposing left-handers.

His arrival would not require San Francisco to take opportunities away from Rafael Devers or Bryce Eldridge. They would retain their regular work at first base and designated hitter.

A one-year offer worth approximately $4 million to $6 million would allow the Giants to acquire that targeted skill without making a lengthy commitment.

At 35, Grichuk fits best in a limited role with a clearly defined purpose. He could improve San Francisco’s matchup options while allowing the organization’s young outfielders to continue earning regular playing time.

Manager Tony Vitello would need to resist using Grichuk as an everyday hitter simply because of his experience. His production indicates that he would provide the most value when placed in situations designed to favor him.

Against a left-handed starter, Grichuk could enter the lineup without forcing the Giants to make a permanent change to their outfield. He could also remain available on the bench until an opposing manager introduces a left-handed reliever during an important situation.

That role would require preparation and patience. Grichuk might not receive regular starts during every series, but he would need to remain ready to face a difficult pitcher with little notice.

Grichuk’s power could alter the way an opponent manages its bullpen. Knowing Grichuk is available would make rival managers consider whether using a left-handed reliever creates an unfavorable matchup later in the inning.

Grichuk would also give the Giants an experienced alternative when a young outfielder needs rest or encounters a difficult stretch.

San Francisco should not view him as a complete solution for its lineup. He would instead address one specific weakness without interfering with the development of younger players.

On an affordable one-year contract, Grichuk could make the Giants more dangerous against left-handed pitching while preserving their long-term outfield plans.