It appears that left-handed reliever Matt Reynolds will be returning to the Giants next season, as reported by Jerry Crasnick of ESPN.com.
The #SFGiants have re-signed pitcher Matt Reynolds. They had previously designated him for assignment in late September.
— Jerry Crasnick (@jcrasnick) December 11, 2016
Matt Reynolds signed a minor league deal with #SFGiants. Non-roster invite to spring training. https://t.co/onhSeMnKDd
— Jerry Crasnick (@jcrasnick) December 11, 2016
Giants general manager Bobby Evans implied during new closer Mark Melancon’s press conference Friday, that any other additions to the San Francisco bullpen are likely to be non-roster invitees. San Francisco is currently $5 million over the $195 million luxury tax threshold for team payroll for the third consecutive year, meaning they will have to pay a 50 percent tax on every dollar they spend on any additional players added to the 40-man roster.
Reynolds, 32, made eight appearances for the Giants last season and was shelled, allowing seven hits, five walks and five earned runs in just six innings of work. Reynolds faired far better with San Francisco’s AAA and AA affiliates, not allowing a single earned run in 18 2/3 innings of relief.
The Giants purchased Reynolds’ contract in late June after he was released by the Arizona Diamondbacks. Reynolds will likely compete with fellow lefty reliever Steven Okert for a spot on the 40-man roster.
Reynolds boasts a 3.80 ERA over his six-year big-league career.
