Only one team made sense for a final sendoff for Pablo Sandoval: the San Francisco Giants.
Sandoval had been a star in San Francisco. He was a two-time All-Star and a three-time World Series champion, winning the 2012 World Series MVP. Although he had not appeared in the majors since 2021, if any team was going to give him a chance, it would be the Giants.
That proved to be the case when Sandoval signed a minor league deal with the Giants in the middle of February. His contract was not symbolic; unlike Sergio Romo last season, Sandoval was heading into spring training with the intention of continuing his career.
However, spring training has not been kind to Sandoval. The former star has struggled with five singles and two RBI over his 28 plate appearances, drawing two walks. His bat has slowed over the years as he has struck out 13 times. Sandoval may have been able to produce in Mexico and during the Baseball United showcase in November, but he is facing the end of the line.
That time may be coming soon. The Giants posted on social media for their fans to come out and cheer Sandoval on Tuesday.
Steve Kroner of the San Francisco Chronicle reported that while Sandoval is not saying one way or the other, this could be his final game.
Come cheer on the Panda! The #SFGiants host the A’s at @OracleParkSF on Tuesday, March 26. First pitch is at 5:05 p.m.
— SFGiants (@SFGiants) March 25, 2024
https://t.co/OZ1x8ovo9h pic.twitter.com/4Ijkfac0ZO
Sandoval has had a solid 14-year career in the majors, 11 of which were spent in San Francisco. He produced a .278/.330/.443 batting line in his 5052 plate appearances, hitting 153 homers and 262 doubles. Despite being more of a contact-oriented hitter, Sandoval had enough pop in the bat to hit over 20 homers twice. He was the type of player winning teams need and a beloved fan favorite.
Tuesday may be Pablo Sandoval's final game. If so, there was no place his story should have ended than with the Giants.
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