Giants are agreeing to this trade for a variety of reasons. Although it would seem as if the Giants are surrendering a boatload of talent in this 6 to 2 trade, the Giants are acquiring two hometown players and opening up some roster spots. The Giants have tried to acquire OF Chris Shaw for several years, and the Tigers have balked at every turn, but finally, he is returning home. Given his production at the end of last season, the Giants are hoping he can continue to show the power he exhibited in MiLB.
Jose Abreu had a variety of injuries in 2018, and went through some horrendous slumps, so with his current contract, the Giants believe it’s better to trade a player who still has some value instead of waiting until he becomes an albatross. The same can be said of Yoennis Cespedes. He is a lethal hitter when healthy, but he has been plagued by injuries the last two seasons and there is no timetable for his return. So better to unload his $6.0m contract instead of carrying him on the roster hoping he gets back on the field.
The Giants hope Mark Melancon returns to form, so giving up Brasier is a wash. The Giants also appear to be on the verge of acquiring some SPs through free agency, so the loss of Covey and Cabrera can certainly be offset by the new additions.
With all that, the Giants are gaining an additional $18.0m in cap to pursue other free agents.
