LOS ANGELES – The Giants had a 40-man roster spot open this week as they waited for Robbie Ray to return, and as they often do, they used it on a player who was recently moved.
San Francisco on Tuesday claimed outfielder Derrick Hill off waivers from the Texas Rangers, who designated him for assignment over the weekend. Hill is out of options, so he needs to be added to the big league roster, possibly as soon as Wednesday.
Giants manager Bob Melvin said he wasn’t sure what the plan was for the roster, although as a right-handed hitting outfielder, Hill’s arrival seemed to indicate that Louis Matos could return to Triple-A.
Hill, an Elk Grove Lake alum, has played 16 games for the Rangers this year, hitting .256 with a .289 on-base percentage and three homers. His glove is his calling card and he is an above average defensive player. Hill also ranks among the league leaders in sprint speed.
“Obviously the organization likes him. He’s got some athleticism, so we’ll see where we go,” Melvin said.
The Giants now have to make a 40-man move to start Wednesday’s game at Dodger Stadium when they activate the Rays. Another is needed next week when Alex Cobb returns from 60-day IL.
Unless the Giants make another move in his career, Hill will likely line up at the spot previously occupied by Austin Slater and traded to the Cincinnati Reds. Matos should have gotten those reps, but the 22-year-old has only made two appearances and three appearances off the bench since Slater’s move. Matos and center fielder Heliot Ramos made a key defensive mistake in Monday’s loss.
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