It’s possible that three key members of the Giants’ three World Series teams have played their last game for the Orange and Black.
Free agent relievers Javier Lopez, Sergio Romo and Santiago Casilla may have to look for jobs elsewhere this offseason, with the San Francisco Giants not planning on bringing any back in 2017, according to Alex Pavlovic of CSN Bay Area.
Giants not planning reunions with Casilla, Lopez or Romo. Front office is excited about young bullpen arms teaming up with Melancon.
— Alex Pavlovic (@AlexPavlovic) December 7, 2016
Though all three were major contributors to the Giants’ success since 2010, the news is not surprising. Casilla seemed unlikely to return after a disastrous 2016 season, in which he blew a league high nine saves, and lost his job as San Francisco’s closer down the stretch. Casilla was seen weeping at his locker after the Giants’ heartbreaking loss in the Game 4 of the NLDS, distraught that manager Bruce Bochy didn’t give him a chance to close the game out in the ninth.
Though missing time due to injury, Romo actually had his best ERA (2.64) since 2013, but implied earlier this offseason that the Giants hadn’t reached out to him, and that he ‘wanted to go someplace where I’m wanted.’
Javier Lopez was originally believed to be considering retirement, but in recent weeks has stated a desire to return to the majors, if he found “an acceptable fit.”
If the three do in fact go elsewhere, the Giants will likely turn to young arms Derek Law (26), Hunter Strickland (25) and Will Smith (27) to take over duties in the eighth inning. Any other additions to the bullpen are expected to be non-roster invitees.