Giants Place Phenomenal Defensive Shortstop On Waivers

The San Francisco Giants have designated veteran shortstop Nick Ahmed for assignment, despite his outstanding defensive performance this season. 

Ahmed, 34, has been a reliable presence in the infield, earning praise for his glove work and maintaining a strong defensive reputation. 

The Giants DFA'd Nick Ahmed two days after trading Austin Slater. They're shaking things up.

— Alex Pavlovic (@PavlovicNBCS) July 9, 2024

Statcast credited him as four runs better than average across 426 innings, while Defensive Runs Saved rated him slightly lower, at one run below par. Despite these defensive accolades, Ahmed struggled offensively, posting a .232/.278/.303 slash line with just one home run over 52 games.

This roster move comes as the Giants activated infielders Thairo Estrada and Wilmer Flores, along with pitcher Blake Snell, from the injured list. 

Manager Bob Melvin emphasized the importance of providing consistent opportunities for younger talent, with Brett Wisely and Tyler Fitzgerald now expected to share duties at shortstop. 

The Giants announced that veteran shortstop Nick Ahmed has been DFA'd. pic.twitter.com/paTLyj1rTU

— KNBR (@KNBR) July 9, 2024

Estrada will return to his regular position at second base. The Giants' decision to DFA Ahmed is part of a broader strategy to integrate more youth into the lineup and improve their standing, currently three games under .500, before the MLB All-Star break.

Over his 11-year career, the 34-year-old holds a .234/.287/.373 triple-slash line, with 71 home runs, 337 RBIs, 42 stolen bases, and 357 runs scored across 940 games played.

Photo Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports