"Ownership approved Rafael Devers deal!" - Giants insider defends team's methodical approach from criticism

The San Francisco Giants recently came under fire from fans, as reports suggested the eight-time World Series winners are not inclined to pay highly-regarded Japanese free agent Tatsuya Imai the nine-figure contract he is looking for this winter.

Though many have criticized San Francisco's approach in the market, insider Susan Slusser defended the Giants' methodical approach during Tuesday's episode of "Splash Hit Territory."

"I don't know that you need another frontline starter. Freddy Peralta or Joe Ryan, absolutely, I don't think you have to go out and get (Tatsuya) Imai," Slusser said (Timestamp: 15:00). "I really don't. The need is for offense, everybody. It's not for pitching. The pitching was good last year, I think it will be good again. I understand why people are upset, I understand why Giants fans look at this and go 'they're not spending money.'

"They have spent money. They've got five long-term deals. Ownership approved the Rafael Devers deal last year. This isn't a team that is sitting on their wallet and not bringing it out, this is a team that has spent pretty strongly. They're in a division with the Dodgers, you're not going to outspend the Dodgers. So, they gotta be smart."

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Insider speculates how new Giants skipper Tony Vitello will establish a rapport the team's Spanish-speaking players

Arriving with glittering reputation at the collegiate level, newly hired manager Tony Vitello has never worked with Spanish-speaking players.

On Nov. 24's episode of "Splash Hit Territory," insider Susan Slusser explained why Spring Training will be an extremely important period for the team, allowing the manager and the players to get past the language barrier and get to know one-another.

"Vitello has not had Spanish-speaking players, he has not dealt with a superstar major league player before," Slusser said (Timestamp: 23:40). I still haven't talked to him or met him, but he (Vitello) sounds like such a people person.

"I don't think this is really going to be an issue. Spring training is so long, this is one of the things it's for, getting to know everybody. Jayce Tinger (bench coach) speaks Spanish, so I think he's going to be a real key."

San Francisco Giants Introduce Manager Tony Vitello - Source: Getty

Having last made it to the playoffs in 2021, fans will be hoping Tony Vitello can lead the Giants to success in 2026.