Not long after Farhan Zaidi was hired as the San Francisco Giants’ head of baseball operations in 2019, the analytically-driven executive met with season-ticket holders to share some of his unconventional strategies. A former lieutenant with the A’s and Dodgers, Zaidi discussed the use of a relief pitcher to open games. Despite his belief that this approach would improve the team’s chances of winning, the room full of diehard fans resisted. In that moment, Zaidi realized he faced an uphill battle.
Zaidi, who holds an MIT degree and a Ph.D. in economics from Berkeley, tried to bring a fresh, data-driven approach to the Giants, but he struggled to mesh with the traditional baseball culture that defined the organization. Despite winning 107 games and claiming the National League West title in 2021, the team’s performance under Zaidi steadily declined. After failing to post a winning record in five of his six seasons, Zaidi was fired on Monday. In a surprising turn, Giants legend Buster Posey, a member of the team’s board of directors, was named as his successor and will serve as the president of baseball operations.
Posey’s appointment marks a significant regime change for the franchise. While Zaidi’s extension, granted just 11 months ago, suggested he might be given more time, the team’s disappointing season – despite spending over $400 million on new contracts and crossing the luxury tax threshold – sealed his fate.
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Giants chairman Greg Johnson praised Zaidi for his efforts but emphasized that results matter most. “While these decisions are not easy, we believe it is time for new leadership,” Johnson said. He expressed confidence that Posey, known for his intelligence and drive, would bring back the winning spirit to San Francisco.
Zaidi’s tenure saw moments of brilliance, like acquiring underrated players such as Mike Yastrzemski and LaMonte Wade Jr. However, he struggled to land franchise-defining stars like Aaron Judge or Shohei Ohtani, and missed opportunities in the amateur draft hindered the Giants’ future growth.
Posey, who retired after the 2021 season, had pledged to limit his involvement with the team’s operations initially. However, his active role in securing third baseman Matt Chapman’s extension earlier this year signaled his growing influence. Now, as the Giants look to rebuild and reclaim their place among baseball’s elite, Posey will be the one steering the ship.
The Giants are expected to bring in a new general manager to work alongside Posey. Potential candidates include former Miami Marlins GM Kim Ng, Diamondbacks assistant GM Amiel Sawdaye, and Phillies GM Sam Fuld, who blends analytics with playing experience under current manager Bob Melvin.
While the task ahead is daunting, Posey’s leadership and connection with the fanbase may bring a new chapter of success to San Francisco. The chalk talks with season-ticket holders might just go over better next time.