Giants' Casey Schmitt Undergoes Wrist Surgery: A Closer Look at the Giants' Second Base Dilemma
The San Francisco Giants have faced a challenging season, with their second basemen struggling at the plate. With a combined batting line of .217/.273/.343 in 2025, they ranked 27th in the MLB in wRC+, indicating a 27% worse performance than league average. This has led to speculation about potential upgrades at the position.
Adding to the team's woes, Giants infielder Casey Schmitt underwent surgery to remove a carpal boss from his left wrist. The procedure will require him to take a break of eight to ten weeks, which could impact his availability during spring training. However, the team remains optimistic that he will be ready for Opening Day if there are no complications.
Schmitt, along with Tyler Fitzgerald, Christian Koss, and Brett Wisely, took all the reps at second base for the Giants last season. While none of them hit well, Schmitt's overall .234/.305/.401 batting line was only slightly below average. With 113 solid plate appearances in 2024, Schmitt has been an average bat over the past two seasons, hitting .241/.300/.420 with 18 homers in 461 plate appearances.
Despite his average performance, Schmitt is currently the top option at second base for the Giants. Fitzgerald and Koss remain with the organization, while Wisely was claimed off waivers by the Atlanta Braves in September. There's no top prospect breathing down Schmitt's neck, as the Giants have yet to find a suitable replacement.
The Giants have long been in the market for help at second base, and with their reluctance to go long-term on starting pitchers this offseason, it remains to be seen if they will make a real run at top free agent Bo Bichette. Other options in free agency include Jorge Polanco and Ha-Seong Kim, while the trade market presents possibilities like Brandon Lowe, Brendan Donovan, and CJ Abrams. Additionally, there are buy-low names such as Nolan Gorman and Luisangel Acuña.
For now, Schmitt remains the top option, but his injury highlights the Giants' need at second base. If the team brings in someone from outside the organization, it doesn't necessarily mean Schmitt will be squeezed out entirely. With his experience at all three infield spots to the left of first base, decent speed, and strong throwing arm, he could make a decent utility player. Additionally, the Giants have the flexibility to send him to Triple-A Sacramento and call him up in the event of an injury elsewhere on the roster.
The Giants can control Schmitt for at least another four seasons, possibly five, depending on how much (if any) time he spends in the minors during his final option year. With his versatility and potential, Schmitt remains a key player for the Giants as they navigate their second base dilemma.
