The newest San Francisco Giants have done their part in signing free agent Aaron Judge.
Former Mariners outfielder Mitch Haniger agreed to a three-year, $43.5 million contract with San Francisco on Tuesday that includes a player opt-out after the second year. A few hours later, he posted an Instagram story that included a photoshopped image of Judge in a Giants jersey and some words of encouragement.
“Come on Aaron! Join the team @thejudge44,” Haniger wrote.
The reigning AL MVP has yet to sign this offseason, as the Yankees and Giants are the current favorites to land the slugger.
For now, Haniger, 32, is filling a need as a umpire for the Giants. When Haniger is fully healthy, he can be right up there with the best of them. In 2021, he hit .253 with 39 home runs and 100 RBI.
While Haninger has dealt with injuries in 2022, the California native has been productive while active. He hit .246 with 11 home runs and 34 RBI in 57 games and helped lead the Mariners to their first playoff appearance in two decades.
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