The Giants’ High-Stakes Bet on Ethan Small’s Revival
The San Francisco Giants have placed their bets on a risky yet potentially rewarding move during this year’s spring training. Let’s delve into the intriguing story of Ethan Small, a former first-round pick, as the Giants take a chance on his comeback journey.
A Bold Move Revisited
A year ago, the Giants made a modest trade with the Milwaukee Brewers, acquiring pitcher Ethan Small with hopes of a fruitful return. Fast forward to the present, Small finds himself gearing up for the upcoming Major League spring training in Scottsdale, Arizona, as a non-roster invitee.
Among a select group of 14 pitchers invited, Small signed a minor-league deal with the Giants in December following a lackluster performance in 2024. Despite a challenging year, the Giants saw potential in Small and extended another opportunity to prove his worth.
A Tale of Ups and Downs
Small’s transition to the Giants was met with setbacks as a right oblique strain delayed his pitching debut. Activated in August, he showcased his skills in Triple-A Sacramento, participating in 14 minor-league games, including three starts. With a modest 4.35 ERA, 16 strikeouts, and two walks in 13 innings, Small’s journey with the Giants began.
Hailing from Mississippi State, Small was initially recognized for his prowess as a strikeout artist. His impressive collegiate career ranked him third in career strikeouts, following notable figures like Eric DuBose and Jeff Brantley. The latter, a former Giants player, left a legacy as a reliable closer in his extensive Major League tenure.
Small’s promising start in the Brewers’ system hinted at a bright future. Excelling in the minor leagues with remarkable stats, he earned recognition and was on the brink of a Major League promotion. However, his transition to the big leagues posed challenges, reflected in his underwhelming performances with the Brewers.
A Fresh Start with the Giants
Now, Small finds himself at a crucial juncture in his career, offering the Giants a potential solution for their pitching needs. Whether serving as starting pitching depth or a long reliever, Small’s versatility could prove valuable for the team. However, his success hinges on regaining form and overcoming the obstacles that plagued his previous season.
In this high-stakes gamble, the Giants are banking on Small’s resurgence, hoping to witness the transformation of a former standout prospect into a reliable asset. As the spring training unfolds, all eyes are on Ethan Small, a player with the talent and determination to rewrite his narrative and carve a new chapter in his baseball journey.