The San Francisco Giants enter the 2026 season with a noticeably clearer and more stable outlook in the outfield, particularly in right field, where Jung Hoo Lee is expected to take on everyday duties.
Recent roster moves have helped solidify that vision, most notably the signing of Harrison Bader, which reshaped the defensive alignment and eased pressure on Lee.
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Before Bader’s arrival, the Giants appeared prepared to continue deploying Lee in center field, a role he handled for much of last season. While Lee’s effort and instincts were evident, the results were mixed.
Defensive metrics painted him as a below-average option in center, including a minus-five Outs Above Average mark, and the challenges of playing the position at Oracle Park, where swirling winds often complicate reads, only magnified those struggles.
Rather than force Lee into a demanding defensive role, San Francisco opted to bring in one of the premier defensive center fielders available.
That decision allows Lee to slide into right field, a move that should benefit both the player and the team. In a corner outfield spot, expectations are that Lee’s defensive numbers will stabilize or even improve, letting his athleticism and arm play more naturally.
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Offensively, Lee has already shown he can be a productive major-league hitter. He posted a 110 OPS+ last season, making him roughly 10 percent better than league average at the plate, despite not being a traditional power threat.
Lee’s offensive profile is built more on contact, plate discipline, and gap-to-gap hitting than home run totals, and that approach showed growth in 2025.
After an injury-shortened rookie campaign, he made noticeable adjustments in his first full season, improving his overall consistency and run production. With another year of experience, the Giants believe there’s still more upside to unlock in 2026.
As for depth behind Lee, San Francisco has a few contingency options but no immediate challengers for the starting job.
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Right-handed bat Jerar Encarnación profiles as a logical backup due to his platoon potential, while younger outfielders like Drew Gilbert could factor in if injuries arise later in the season. Still, barring unforeseen circumstances, right field appears firmly spoken for.
By pairing Bader’s elite defense in center with Lee’s transition to right, the Giants have constructed a more balanced and efficient outfield, one that positions Lee to thrive in 2026 without being stretched beyond his strengths.
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