The San Francisco Giants have designated outfielder Wade Meckler for assignment, the club announced to reporters on Thursday. The move was made to create a spot on the 40-man roster following the official completion of the team’s contract with right-handed starter Adrian Houser, a signing that further solidifies San Francisco’s pitching depth heading into the 2026 season.
Meckler’s designation is another example of the difficult roster decisions teams face during the offseason, particularly when balancing long-term development with immediate needs. The 25-year-old outfielder had been on the Giants’ 40-man roster, but with San Francisco continuing to add major league-ready talent, he ultimately became the odd man out in a roster crunch.
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Originally selected by the Giants in the eighth round of the 2022 MLB Draft out of Oregon State, Meckler quickly earned attention for his polished offensive approach. Known for his plate discipline and high on-base skills, he climbed the minor league ladder rapidly, showcasing an advanced feel for the strike zone and a contact-oriented swing. His ability to work counts and reach base made him an intriguing depth piece, even if he was not viewed as a traditional power-hitting corner outfielder.
Meckler reached the major leagues and saw limited action with San Francisco, though his time at the highest level was brief and inconsistent. Like many young hitters, he faced the challenge of adjusting to major league pitching, particularly when it came to handling velocity and breaking balls at the top of the zone. While the results did not immediately translate into sustained production, the underlying traits that made him a prospect of interest remain intact.
Defensively, Meckler offers versatility across the outfield, capable of handling all three spots in a pinch. While he is not considered a standout defender at any one position, his instincts and effort have generally drawn positive reviews, making him a serviceable option for depth roles. That flexibility likely contributed to the Giants’ decision to keep him on the roster as long as possible before ultimately needing to free up space.
Under the DFA process, the Giants now have up to five days to either trade Meckler or place him on outright waivers. If another club claims him, San Francisco would lose him for nothing in return, but Meckler would receive a fresh opportunity in a new organization. Should he clear waivers, the Giants could outright him to the minor leagues, retaining him as non-roster depth while removing him from the 40-man roster.
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For Meckler, the designation represents an uncertain but potentially pivotal moment in his career. Players with strong on-base skills and positional versatility often draw interest as depth options, particularly for teams seeking inexpensive outfield help. For the Giants, the move underscores the ongoing balancing act between maintaining prospect depth and making room for veterans expected to contribute at the major league level.