In the Cactus League opener, the Giants showcased their talent with a 6-1 victory. Landen Roupp stood out with two hitless innings, striking out three, while Bryce Eldridge hit a home run. Jung Hoo Lee made a strong return from injury, recording a hit and making an impressive catch in the outfield.

Marco Luciano, transitioning to left field, demonstrated solid defensive skills despite struggling at the plate. The Giants are evaluating their roster carefully, with key competition for positions heating up. The early spring training games promise excitement as the team prepares for the season.

The Texas Rangers and outfielder Leody Taveras have finalized a contract agreement for the 2025 season, valuing at $4.5 million, thus avoiding arbitration. Taveras, entering his second year of arbitration, previously played for $2.55 million and was projected to earn $4.3 million for the upcoming season. His performance in the 2024 season included a batting line of .229/.289/.352, with 12 home runs and 44 RBIs over 151 games, marking a downturn from his impressive contributions during the Rangers’ World Series run in 2023.

The Rangers have not navigated an arbitration hearing since 2000. Currently, catcher Jonah Heim remains the only other arbitration-eligible player on the team, projected to garner $4.8 million. Taveras, who is under contract until 2028, will need to outperform emerging talents like Wyatt Langford and Evan Carter to secure his position for the next season.

Sam Huff, a former top catching prospect for the Texas Rangers, has been claimed off waivers by the San Francisco Giants. This announcement came after Huff was designated for assignment following the Rangers' acquisition of relief pitcher Shawn Armstrong in December.

At 26 years old, Huff has seen his once-promising career stall significantly. Despite being ranked among the top 100 prospects in baseball and showcasing impressive power potential in the minors, his opportunities in the majors have diminished. He played only three games for the Rangers last season and would likely have been limited to a backup role with the team's recent roster changes.

The San Francisco Giants have made notable moves this offseason, starting with the acquisition of star shortstop Willy Adames. This decision solidifies their infield alongside Matt Chapman, significantly enhancing the team's batting power. Adames's presence is expected to provide the Giants with the offensive boost they have been seeking.

In addition to Adames, the Giants have signed future Hall of Famer Justin Verlander. While Verlander's performance may not mirror his former Cy Young-winning days, his veteran experience is anticipated to guide a young pitching rotation. The Giants also aim to secure Roki Sasaki, but they continue to strengthen their roster in the meantime.

Recently, the team claimed catcher Sam Huff off waivers from the Texas Rangers. Huff, a former seventh-round pick, has shown potential despite modest stats in his 78 MLB games, and could prove beneficial for San Francisco's depth at catcher.