San Francisco Giants top prospect Bryce Eldridge turned heads at the club’s FanFest Tour stop at San Pedro Square Market, unveiling a new jersey number as he prepares for what he hopes will be his first full Major League season.

According to MLB.com’s Maria Guardado, the 21-year-old slugger has switched from No. 78 to No. 8, a move inspired by his admiration for NHL superstar Alexander Ovechkin.

Eldridge joked that he hopes the number change marks the end of offseason surprises, especially as his name has recently surfaced in trade speculation.

With the Giants adding Rafael Devers, another power bat at first base, some around the league have wondered whether San Francisco could consider dealing Eldridge to address other roster needs. Despite the chatter, Eldridge made it clear he wants his future to remain with the Giants.

The rookie said he has heard the rumors but is doing his best to tune them out and focus on his development. He acknowledged that speculation often ramps up late in the offseason, regardless of its accuracy. Eldridge emphasized his desire to stay in San Francisco, adding that he hopes the organization shares that same long-term vision.

Much of Eldridge’s offseason was initially centered on recovery. He spent the early months rehabbing from left wrist surgery after dealing with discomfort throughout last season.

The injury dated back to last spring, when he received a cortisone shot to manage the pain before eventually opting for surgery in October to remove a bone spur. Now, Eldridge says he is nearly back to full strength and has resumed his normal hitting progression.

Playing through the injury last year was both physically and mentally taxing, but Eldridge believes the experience has boosted his confidence. He pointed to the fact that he was still productive despite not feeling fully healthy, something he feels will pay dividends now that he is closer to 100 percent.

Eldridge’s performance across multiple levels in 2025 backed up that belief. He hit .260 with an .843 OPS and launched 25 home runs in 102 Minor League games before earning a brief 10-game call-up with the Giants.

While the club has not guaranteed him a spot on the Opening Day roster, Eldridge said his goal is to force the issue this spring and earn a place on the 26-man roster.

Another intriguing storyline for Eldridge is his familiarity with the new Giants manager, Tony Vitello. The two crossed paths during Eldridge’s high school recruitment, and now they have a chance to work together at the Major League level.

Eldridge expressed excitement about the reunion and optimism about the direction of the team as he looks ahead to the 2026 season.

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