Veteran right-hander Michael Fulmer is approaching Spring Training with a renewed mindset as he looks to carve out a role with the San Francisco Giants.

In an interview with Marty Lurie of KNBR, Fulmer discussed his decision to join the organization, his evolving pitching style, and his determination to return to form after battling injuries.

Fulmer explained that familiarity and opportunity both played key roles in his decision to sign with San Francisco.

“I was happy to be here, happy to get kind of sought after,” Fulmer said. “Me choosing here is kind of a new regime. Tony V (Giants manager Tony Vitello) and I go way back… and one of my good buddies, Adrian Houser, signed here before me. I thought I’d come here for an opportunity too.”

The right-hander also pointed to the organization’s reputation and leadership as additional factors, including the presence of franchise icon Buster Posey in the front office.

“Obviously, Buster will be in the front office now,” Fulmer said. “I loved playing against him. It’s just one of the great organizations in baseball.”

Fulmer’s career began with a strong rise after his debut with the Detroit Tigers, where he earned American League Rookie of the Year honors in 2016 and later became an All-Star.

However, injuries slowed his momentum, forcing him to adjust both physically and mentally.

“I had a great year, but injuries hit me after that,” Fulmer said. “I had knee problems and then elbow issues, and it became a grind just trying to come back. I tried to make myself better as a player and a person every day in rehab.”

Now healthy, Fulmer says he is focused on competing and proving he can still be effective.

“I’m here now with a clean slate,” he said. “I’m an open book. I need to go out and compete.”

Fulmer acknowledged that his pitching arsenal has evolved since his early years. While his velocity is still a work in progress, he believes experience and pitch design have strengthened his approach.

“I’m a different pitcher than I was,” Fulmer said. “I’m more of a spin guy now -- cutter, slider, sweeper. I think I’m a lot wiser when it comes to tunneling pitches and scouting hitters.”

The veteran also noted his comfort pitching in high-leverage situations, including closing appearances with the Chicago Cubs in 2023.

“Those are my favorites,” Fulmer said. “The adrenaline brings out the best stuff in me.”

As Spring Training continues, Fulmer is focused on consistency and adaptability, hoping his experience and refined pitch mix can help him secure a meaningful role in the Giants’ bullpen.

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