SAN FRANCISCO — A Bright Spot for the Giants’ Struggling Offense

Things aren’t looking great for the Giants’ offense lately, except for one standout: Casey Schmidt.

On Monday, he smashed his fifth home run of the season. Interestingly, he has been the driving force behind the team’s last three base-to-base plays since Saturday.

At 27 years old, Schmidt’s rise is somewhat of a silver lining in an otherwise tough start for the team. In fact, his standout performance might prompt a need for new gear—perhaps a glove for outfield play?

Manager Tony Vitello was serious when he mentioned that Schmidt, who already covers all four infield positions, might need to venture into the outfield just to keep his bat in the game.

“It’s definitely possible,” Vitello said before Schmidt added another home run to his tally in Monday’s 3-2 victory against the Padres.

In a lineup that ranks among the lowest in runs, Schmidt is leading in several categories: home runs (5), RBIs (16), on-base percentage (.359), slugging percentage (.542), and OPS+ (155).

Though Schmidt’s physical capabilities are clear, he noted he hasn’t played in the outfield since high school, although he vaguely remembers taking some fly balls last season without an outfield glove.

“I’ll have to see if I can track one down. I’m sure somebody will have an extra glove around here,” Schmidt remarked. “I’m open to anything.”

The challenges faced by players like Willie Adames, Rafael Devers, and Matt Chapman have opened doors for Schmidt to become a more regular presence in the lineup. This week also saw the promotion of top prospect Bryce Eldridge, bringing even more attention to Schmidt’s role.

With Chapman taking a breather Monday night, Schmidt was placed back at his preferred position, third base. The team aims to give more days off to some struggling veterans, acknowledging that, while there are no excuses, it would allow them to perform better.

Eldridge, currently hitting .333 with a .963 OPS in Triple-A, is set to split duties between DH and first base, filling in when Devers isn’t available. They’re likely looking to maximize Luis Arraez’s playing time at second base, which leaves Schmidt and a couple of less productive veterans, Chapman and Adames, vying for spots in the infield.

Unless, of course, Schmidt’s versatility inspires some innovative strategies.

Reflecting on his past, Schmidt noted, “I was actually pretty decent for an outfielder. I played left and center field, then right for a bit in high school.”

His upbeat attitude has made him a favorite among teammates, and that easy adaptation has helped his case. Although he was on track to becoming the main third baseman, signing Chapman to an extension changed things. Schmidt had a chance to be the starting second baseman this year but lost out after acquiring Arraez.

When Devers couldn’t start the season, Schmidt, already equipped with a first base glove, stepped in and made himself indispensable.

Vitello had high praise for Schmidt, likening his approach to that of a Little Leaguer.

“Casey is one of those few players who can hit well, but he’s really shining right now because he keeps it simple,” Vitello said. “That doesn’t mean he’s not competitive. He comes to the dugout and sometimes he gets a bit frustrated. But then he bounces right back.”

Vitello added, “He’s playing the game with the enthusiasm of a Little Leaguer. Sure, it requires some skill and understanding, but sometimes when things are tough, just playing with joy and a bit of looseness can really help. Of course, winning a Little League game might mean some ice cream, but this is the big leagues.”