As the San Francisco Giants move closer to the start of Spring Training, one position that stands out as significantly improved is center field, an area that looked thin at the beginning of the offseason and even thinner for much of the 2025 campaign.

With camps set to open in the coming days, roster clarity becomes increasingly important, and the Giants now appear to be in a much stronger position up the middle of the outfield.

That improvement was highlighted by the club’s decision to sign veteran outfielder Harrison Bader to a two-year deal, a move that reshaped the entire defensive outlook.

Last season, the Giants relied heavily on Jung Hoo Lee as their everyday center fielder. While Lee provided steady production at the plate, there were questions about his defensive fit at the position.

With limited alternatives, Drew Gilbert saw brief action, appearing in just six games in center field during his rookie season, leaving San Francisco with little flexibility.

Offensively, Lee held his own in 2025, posting a 110 OPS+, marking him as an above-average contributor compared to the rest of the league.

However, defensive metrics painted a less flattering picture, as Lee recorded minus-five Outs Above Average in center field according to Baseball Savant, suggesting the position may not have maximized his strengths.

That concern is largely addressed with Bader’s arrival. Known throughout the league for his elite glove, Bader posted an OAA of eight, placing him among the better defensive outfielders in baseball.

For a Giants team focused on run prevention and overall athleticism, that defensive upgrade alone carries significant value.

Bader also brings more than just defense. At the plate, he enjoyed one of the best offensive seasons of his career, slashing .277/.347/.449 with 17 home runs. His balanced skill set gives the Giants a reliable option near the middle of the lineup, while also easing pressure on other hitters.

Behind Bader, Gilbert remains a viable depth piece. While still developing, his energy and familiarity with Giants manager Tony Vitello — his former head coach at Tennessee — could earn him opportunities as the season unfolds.

Overall, as expectations rise in San Francisco, the Giants head into 2026 with renewed confidence in center field, marking a meaningful step forward as a new era of Giants baseball takes shape.

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