The Giants Acquire A.J. Pollock and Mark Mathias in a Trade with the Mariners

The Trade Details

Giants get: OF A.J. Pollock, UT Mark Mathias, and cash considerations

Mariners get: Player to be named later or cash considerations

Source confirms: Giants acquiring outfielder AJ Pollock and utility man Mark Mathias from the Mariners. First: @JeffPassan

— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) July 31, 2023

The San Francisco Giants have made a surprising move by acquiring outfielder A.J. Pollock and utility man Mark Mathias from the Seattle Mariners. This trade adds depth to the Giants’ roster, although they already have a crowded outfield.

Giants’ Outfield Depth

The Giants currently have eight players on their active roster who have appeared in the outfield within the last 15 months. However, injuries have tested their depth, leading to the use of players like Joc Pederson more frequently than anticipated. Mike Yastrzemski and Austin Slater have formed an effective center field platoon, but both have been dealing with injuries. This trade aims to address the team’s need for outfield reinforcements.

A.J. Pollock’s Performance

Pollock, a 35-year-old outfielder, has struggled this season, hitting .173/.225/.323 in 138 plate appearances with the Mariners. However, he had a solid performance with the Chicago White Sox last year, suggesting that he may still have some value, especially against left-handed pitchers. The Giants are hoping that Pollock can regain his previous form and contribute to their outfield rotation.

Mark Mathias’ Role

Mark Mathias, a recent waiver claim by the Mariners, is a utility player who adds versatility to the Giants’ roster. He has been involved in the intriguing trade history between the Giants and Mariners, and it remains to be seen how long he will remain with the team. Mathias is likely to be designated for assignment in the near future, based on past trends.

Mark Mathias just flew four hours to Houston with the Rainiers, landed, found out he was traded, said goodbye to everyone at the baggage claim, and disappeared.

— Mike Curto (@CurtoWorld) July 31, 2023

Despite the uncertainty surrounding Mathias’ future with the team, the Giants are hopeful that his versatility will provide valuable depth during their playoff push.

The Mariners’ Return

The Mariners will receive a player to be named later (PTNBL) or cash considerations in return for Pollock and Mathias. This trade is seen as inconsequential for the Mariners, as they are likely focused on their long-term plans and building for the future.

Overall Trade Grade

Mariners: Pass

Giants: C-

This trade is a peculiar move for the Giants, given their already crowded outfield situation. The performance of A.J. Pollock and the future of Mark Mathias with the team remain uncertain. However, the Giants are hoping that these acquisitions will provide the necessary depth and support for their playoff run.

(Photo of Pollock: Lindsey Wasson / Associated Press)