SAN FRANCISCO — When the Giants signed Pablo Sandoval to a minor league contract in July, they could not have expected that the former World Series MVP, apparently spiraling into the downswing of his career, would reward them with offensive production and defensive versatility like he has in 2018.
He first came to San Francisco in 2008 as a corner infielder and platoon catcher. Now in his 11th season, he has developed into an occasional middle infielder, and in very unique circumstances, emergency pitcher.
On Apr. 28, Sandoval made his MLB pitching debut in a 1-2-3 ninth inning appearance. On May 27, he made his Giants debut at second base (he played 0.2 innings at second base with the Boston Red Sox) and was comfortable enough to wag his finger at a hitter who failed to beat his throw after a diving play.
Giants manager Bruce Bochy has long admired Sandoval’s desire to play multiple positions, but there are limits. Prior to San Francisco’s series opener with the visiting Colorado Rockies Tuesday night, Bochy recounted when he put Sandoval at left field during a trip to Taiwan.
“I found out he is not an outfielder, as much as he wants to go back out there,” said Bochy, smiling.
As far as second base goes, that’s different.
“I don’t have any concerns about him playing second base,” Bochy said. “He is not afraid. He wants to be the guy to play multiple positions. Same with pitching, when I brought up pitching, he was the one who was excited more than anybody.”
Second basemen Alen Hanson and Joe Panik have each missed time this season due to injury. So has first baseman Brandon Belt. Third baseman Evan Longoria continues to rehab a broken hand injury that is expected to sideline him at least another month.
With all of the attrition to the Giants’ roster, particularly in the infield, Sandoval, hitting .272 with six homers in 64 games, has been an important asset. He has played five different positions this year. If it were up to him, he would play all nine by season’s end.
“It’s all about wanting to do it, not being afraid,” Bochy said.
