The San Francisco Giants have an exciting prospect in Bryce Eldridge. If he performs well in the minors next season and earns a call-up, it could indicate that veteran first basemen LaMonte Wade Jr. and Wilmer Flores are merely temporary solutions.
Eldridge is the top-ranked prospect in the Giants’ organization. At just 19 years old, he made his way to Triple-A Sacramento by the end of the season, finishing with a .291/.374/.516 batting line, 23 home runs, and 92 RBIs across all minor league levels.
These impressive statistics have fans eager about the potential for Eldridge to significantly impact the Giants’ offense in 2025. However, the challenge is that Eldridge plays first base, a position already occupied by LaMonte Wade Jr.
LaMonte Wade Jr. and Wilmer Flores could just be placeholders for SF Giants top prospect Bryce Eldridge
Wade had a solid 2024 season, posting a .260/.380/.381 batting line with 8 home runs and 34 RBIs. His .380 on-base percentage is impressive, but he lacks the power typically expected from a first baseman.
As noted by our own Michael Swinehart, Wilmer Flores will likely remain on the roster at least at the start of next season. He can also play first base and is expected to form a platoon with Wade.
The key question is how long this platoon will continue. If Eldridge begins the year in Triple-A and excels while Wade and Flores struggle, the pressure on the front office to promote Eldridge will be significant.
Farhan Zaidi had previously stated he didn’t want to sign any players who might obstruct Eldridge’s path to the majors. Now, with Buster Posey in charge, it’s unclear how he views Eldridge’s development. Does he believe Eldridge needs another full season in the minors, or is he ready for a big league opportunity? That remains uncertain.
For now, it seems likely that Wade and Flores will serve as temporary solutions while the Giants await their top prospect’s impact in the majors. Consequently, despite being solid players and good teammates in San Francisco, Wade and Flores may end up as placeholders in 2025.
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