Giants Prioritize Getting At-Bats For Bryce Eldridge In 2024
Bryce Eldridge said in July that his preference is “definitely to do both,” referring to hitting and pitching, as he did in high school.
He played right field and did not pitch in his pro debut last summer after being drafted 16th overall.
“The goal the whole time through has been to get (to the majors) as early as I can,” Eldridge said in January. “Whatever route that is is going to be the best for me.”
The lefthanded hitter thrived at the plate last year in 31 games split almost evenly between the Arizona Complex League and Low-A San Jose. He hit six home runs with a .294/.400/.505 slash line.
So it’s understandable that Giants farm director Kyle Haines said it’s equally conceivable that Eldridge—a righthander with a fastball that reaches the mid 90s—could get his first taste of pitching as a pro this year. Or he could remain solely a position player.
“Right now, we’re really prioritizing his ability to get his at-bats,” Haines said.
The 6-foot-7, 223-pound Eldridge has the size and type of swing that translates to easy power.
“Most young hitters have to cheat and sell out (for power). He doesn’t,” Haines said. “He’s got a nice, short stroke. He has a good approach at the plate and is really a well-rounded hitter—and then it’s easy to dream on the power.”
Eldridge was a first baseman at Madison High in suburban Washington, D.C. Haines expects Eldridge to see time at both corner outfield spots and at first base this season, which he’ll likely begin with San Jose.
“Eventually, it’d be nice to find a home where he’s an above-average defender maybe in one spot,” Haines said.
Growing up a Nationals fan, Eldridge was a big fan of Bryce Harper. Eldridge hopes that one day he’ll be playing first base in the bigs with Harper having reached base.
Eldridge said he’ll “have a conversation with (Harper) and tell him that he was my favorite player growing up. I think that’d be pretty sweet.”
