The Giants have added significant strength to their lineup by signing slugger Jorge Soler to a three-year, $42 million contract.
In a recent interview on “Giants Talk,” San Francisco infield stalwart Wilmer Flores told NBC Sports Bay Area's Alex Pavlovich and Laura Britt that when recruiting Soler to the Bayside city, He spoke in detail about how he collaborated with the
Flores explained how he helped Soler, who had never played for a team west of Kansas City during his MLB career, with questions about the Bay Area and the culture within the Giants organization.
“He definitely asked some questions. He's very family-oriented and wants his family to feel comfortable,” Flores explained. “He asked me about the culture in the clubhouse and the chemistry between coaches and players, and we talked about all of that and he agreed.
“I told him about the city. He asked if it was cold during the day, and I said, 'Yes, it's windy and cold.'”
Flores also explained that while Soler's positive power is a big bonus for the Giants' lineup, his offensive ability isn't just limited to his big-play ability.
“Every time you have a power hitter, your lineup gets better,” Flores told Pavlovic and Britt. “More than just a power hitter, I see him as a good hitter. I've seen him drive the ball the other way, which is good for a power hitter. He just I'm not a strikeout or home run hitter, I'm a good at-bat.'' Which is better? “
Soler, a 10-year MLB veteran, made his first career All-Star appearance with the Miami Marlins last season, hitting .250/.512/.853 with 36 home runs in 137 games.
The Giants notoriously haven't had a 30-home run hitter since Barry Bonds hit the ball 45 times during the 2004 MLB season. Soler looks to break a 19-year streak and add some much-needed power to the middle of San Francisco's lineup, which will be a welcome addition to his new teammate Flores.
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