In a season that's been tough to watch for San Francisco Giants fans, one bright spot has emerged from the shadows: Casey Schmitt. While the Giants' offense has struggled to find its footing, Schmitt has been swinging a hot bat that's impossible to ignore.
On Monday, the 27-year-old infielder crushed his fifth home run of the season, continuing a tear that has seen him account for the team's last three trips around the bases since Saturday. In a lineup that's producing the fewest runs in all of Major League Baseball, Schmitt is leading the charge in home runs (five), RBIs (16), on-base percentage (.359), slugging (.542), and OPS+ (155).
His breakout has been so impressive that manager Tony Vitello is considering expanding his role. Schmitt already plays all four infield positions, but Vitello floated the idea of adding corner outfield to his repertoire—just to keep his bat in the lineup every day.
"It's a definite possibility," Vitello said before Schmitt homered again in Monday's 3-2 win over the Padres.
For Schmitt, the outfield would be a new challenge. He hasn't played there since his sophomore year at Eastlake High School outside San Diego. He recalls shagging fly balls last season but admits he doesn't even own an outfield glove.
"I'll see if I can find one. Someone will have an extra one, for sure—it's the big leagues," Schmitt said with a grin. "I'm open to anything."
The early-season struggles of veterans Willy Adames, Rafael Devers, and Matt Chapman have opened the door for Schmitt to earn everyday playing time. But with top prospect Bryce Eldridge getting promoted Monday, the infield and designated hitter spots are getting crowded. The Giants gave Chapman the night off Monday, sliding Schmitt over to third base—his best and most natural position.
Moving forward, the team plans to give their struggling veterans more rest days. As Vitello put it, "There's not going to be any excuses, not that there have been." For Schmitt, this means more opportunities to prove that his breakout is no fluke—and maybe a chance to pick up a new glove along the way.