Luis Arraez made one thing clear during his introductory media scrum: He’s in San Francisco to compete, and he believes the Giants have the pieces to win.
“It’s not because I’m here,” Arraez said when asked about the team’s postseason potential. “They got really good things. We got a lot of chance to make the playoffs this year.”
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The two-time batting champion pointed to the strength of the lineup, highlighting established stars such as Matt Chapman, Willy Adames, and Rafael Devers. His role, he emphasized, is simple.
“I just need to get on base for those guys,” Arraez said while meeting reporters at the Giants’ Spring Training facility in Scottsdale, Ariz. “Prepare my batter behind me and try to make the job easy for them.”
A major factor in Arraez’s choosing of San Francisco was the opportunity to return to his natural position at second base. After spending significant time at first base last season, he said he feels physically ready to handle the middle infield again.
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“My body (is) ready to play second base,” Arraez said. “I train a lot there. I’m back to my natural position. I can’t wait to go there and enjoy.”
Arraez added that defensive familiarity, particularly when it comes to turning double plays, gives him added confidence. The Giants’ belief in his ability to play second base every day ultimately separated them from other suitors.
“They trust me,” he said. “They give me a big opportunity.”
Offensively, Arraez does not plan to alter his approach. Known for his elite bat-to-ball skills and one of the lowest strikeout rates in baseball, he credited preparation and trust in his ability.
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“Trust yourself and go there and compete,” Arraez said. “It’s not easy, but it’s not impossible.”
He explained that he is comfortable hitting anywhere in the lineup, though he enjoys leading off. Whether batting first or near the bottom of the order, his focus remains on helping the team win.
Arraez also expressed excitement about working with veteran baseball minds in the organization and competing alongside players he has long admired, including former opponents such as pitchers Logan Webb and Robbie Ray.
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Beyond 2026, Arraez acknowledged that he hopes to eventually find long-term stability with one franchise.
“It’s hard to play year and year,” he said. “You want to stay for long.”
For now, however, his focus is clear.
“I’m excited to be here,” Arraez said. “Now it’s time to work.”
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