Stays by the Bay

Pablo Sandoval reupped with the Giants on Wednesday. The veteran infielder, who flopped so badly after jumping to the Red Sox as a 2015 free agent, has been a valuable bench player since returning to San Francisco in the middle of 2017.

His productive 2019 season -- with 14 homers and 23 doubles in under 300 at bats -- ended early when he needed Tommy John Surgery on his right elbow. Reportedly "ahead of schedule," the Venezuelan native needs to make a quick impression in the Cactus League.

With the dramatically different Gabe Kapler taking over as manager this year, and Sandoval on just a minor league contract with a big league camp invitation, nothing is guaranteed for Kung Fu Panda. On the other hand, a veteran pinch hitter who capably backs up Evan Longoria and Brandon Belt at the corners has value, even in an analytically driven organization.

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