San Francisco Giants outfielder Joc Pederson has reportedly been taking ground balls at first base—but why? Brandon Belt is under contract for 2022 but then is set to reach free agency. It's been a disappointing season for Belt, who has dealt with injuries and generally been a non-factor at the plate. Pederson has been good in his platoon role, but isn't a great defender in the outfield. It's certainly possible that Belt could see more time at DH, Pederson could play first, and an outfielder could be added to the roster.

Heliot Ramos, perhaps not coincidentally, will reportedly be in Colorado on the taxi squad. Does that mean he's getting called up? Should the SF Giants start playing their younger players more. The Giants have numerous struggling veterans, including Belt, but perhaps most obviously Tommy La Stella, who's been a net negative to the Giants this season. He can't really play the field or run, and hasn't even been able to hit well even though he's mostly the designated hitter. Could his time with the Giants be coming to an end?

Is there anything to look forward to next season or is it all doom and gloom? Even though this season has been disappointing for the Giants and their best player in Carlos Rodón is likely not going to be back next year, there is reason for hope in 2023. Logan Webb, Joey Bart, Thairo Estrada, and Camilo Doval look like core pieces moving forward, and their prospects are a year closer to the majors. Kyle Harrison looks like a potential future ace, and Marco Luciano is finally back from his back injury. We should see those guys in the majors in the next year or two.

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The best daily San Francisco Giants podcast. Whether the Giants are winning championships or retooling for another title run, Locked On Giants host Ben Kaspick—a lifelong Giants fan and former contributor for RotoGraphs and Beyond the Box Score—breaks down every game, rumor, and transaction in a way that's data-driven and rational but also simple, passionate, and accessible to all.

Follow Ben Kaspick on Twitter, where he’ll be sharing the latest news about the San Francisco Giants and talking with fans.

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