The San Francisco Giants fired Farhan Zaidi from his role as president of baseball operations. Buster Posey, the three-time World Series-winning catcher and franchise icon, will replace him. Recently, Posey has taken on a larger role in the Giants’ front office.
Posey, a seven-time All-Star and National League Most Valuable Player, retired after the 2021 season. He joined the Giants’ ownership group in 2022. Although many recognize him for his baseball acumen, the 37-year-old Posey lacks the extensive front office experience typically seen in those who ascend to top jobs.
Despite this, the Giants believe he is the right candidate to lead their baseball operations. Zaidi, aged 47, oversaw the team since 2019 but faced disappointing results. Over the past three seasons, the Giants struggled, which led to his dismissal.
Giants chairman Greg Johnson stated, “We are looking for someone who can define and direct this franchise’s baseball philosophy. Therefore, we feel that Buster is the perfect fit.” He added that Posey has the intelligence and drive needed for this role. Johnson expressed confidence that Posey and manager Bob Melvin will work together to restore winning baseball in San Francisco.
Posey’s involvement in the six-year, $151 million contract extension for Matt Chapman earlier this month indicates a significant shift in the Giants’ operations. However, it remains unclear whether Posey would have taken over if Zaidi had not been fired. The organization consistently backed Zaidi, granting him a two-year contract extension last year. Additionally, they allowed him to guarantee over $400 million in free agent deals, consequently pushing the team’s payroll past the luxury-tax threshold.
Despite several excellent individual performances, the Giants faltered, finishing 80-82. This follows 81-81 and 79-83 records in 2022 and 2023, respectively. The hiring of Melvin and the signings of Chapman, left-hander Blake Snell, and outfielder Jung Hoo Lee did little to change a team buried in a tough MLB division. The Dodgers, Padres, and Diamondbacks remained superior.
Zaidi’s tenure initially appeared promising in 2021 when the Giants finished with a remarkable 107-55 record and won the National League West. This marked the only time in the past 12 seasons that a team other than the Dodgers claimed the division crown. However, San Francisco lost to the Dodgers in the division series. Posey retired, officially marking the end of an era that included three World Series victories. Zaidi never came close to replicating that success.
Johnson expressed appreciation for Zaidi’s commitment and passion for making an impact in the community during his six years with the Giants. He noted, “Ultimately, the results have not met our expectations. While this responsibility is shared, we believe new leadership is necessary. It’s time to elevate our team and consistently contend for championships.” Johnson wishes Zaidi and his family the best in their future endeavors.
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