The San Francisco Giants have reached a four-year, $44 million agreement with right-handed pitcher Jordan Hicks, according to a source. The deal also includes $2 million per year in performance bonuses based on innings pitched. Hicks, who is known for his impressive pitching ability, is expected to join the Giants’ rotation after spending most of his career as a reliever.
This signing adds to the Giants’ offseason pitching acquisitions, as they previously acquired left-hander Robbie Ray from the Seattle Mariners. The Giants have been looking to strengthen their rotation, especially with pitchers like Ray and Alex Cobb expected to miss the start of the season due to injuries. The team has emphasized the need for flexibility in their rotation options, which Hicks provides.
Hicks, at 27 years old, has established himself as one of the hardest-throwing pitchers in recent years. He holds the record for throwing two of the fastest pitches (105-plus mph) in the pitch-tracking era. In the 2023 season, Hicks had a successful year as a reliever, with a career-best ERA, expected ERA, FIP, strikeout rate, and whiff rate. He was able to utilize his outstanding pitching repertoire to generate swings and misses from opposing batters.
One notable change in Hicks’ pitching style was his adoption of the “sweeper” movement, which added a breaking ball to his arsenal. The combination of his breaking ball and his sinker, which reaches speeds of 100 mph, creates a challenging and unpredictable pitching strategy. Hicks’ sweeper pitch boasted a high whiff rate, further highlighting his effectiveness on the mound.
However, there is some concern regarding Hicks’ injury history. He underwent Tommy John surgery in 2019, and his unique pitching style may increase the risk of a second surgery. Despite this risk, the Giants have recognized Hicks’ potential and signed him to a contract.
Overall, the Giants’ acquisition of Jordan Hicks strengthens their pitching rotation and adds a powerful arm to their bullpen. With his exceptional pitching abilities and ability to produce remarkable results, Hicks is poised to make a significant impact on the team.