San Francisco Giants: Offseason Rumors and Available Free Agents

Justin Upton

Sep 15, 2014; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Braves left fielder Justin Upton (8) hits an RBI double scoring Atlanta Braves shortstop Andrelton Simmons (not pictured) in the ninth inning of their game against the Washington Nationals at Turner Field. The Nationals won 4-2. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports

The Braves have already traded Jason Heyward, and they are now expected to trade Justin Upton by the end of the offseason. The Giants have been linked as a possible suitor for Upton, given their need for a bat and an outfielder.

Upton is another player that the Giants are very familiar with, as he played six seasons for the Diamondbacks, giving him an advantage with his experience against National League West teams. At only 26 years old, Upton has plenty of career left in him as an outfielder. He’s an excellent defender and an above average hitter as well, batting .270 with 29 home runs and 102 RBI in 2014.

Upton’s power numbers would probably decline going to San Francisco, but he would still be a nice replacement to Sandoval in the lineup. On the negative side, the Giants don’t have a whole lot to give up for Upton in a trade.