The newest member of the San Francisco Giants has already taken steps to attract free agent Aaron Judge.
Mitch Haniger, a former outfielder for the Seattle Mariners, signed 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 uploaded an Instagram story with a photoshopped image of Judge in a Giants uniform and encouraging comments.
“Arrive, Aaron! Join the team @thejudge44,” wrote Haniger.
Yankees and Giants are the current favorites to sign Judge, who is the reigning AL Most Valuable Player. Judge has not yet signed this offseason.
Haniger, 32, now fills a necessity as the Giants’ court judge. When healthy, Haniger can compete with the top hitters. He hit.253 with 39 home runs and 100 RBIs in 2021.
Despite suffering from ailments in 2022, the California native remained productive when active. He hit the ball. In 57 games, he batted 246 with 11 home runs and 34 RBIs, contributing to the Mariners’ first postseason berth in 20 years.
»Mitch Haniger is attempting to sign Aaron Judge to the Giants. “Join the team!”«