Pre-season
On September 21, 2007, Giants' ownership announced that Bonds would not return after the 2007 season. The Giants did not resign Ryan Klesko and Pedro Feliz. On December 12, 2007 the Giants signed Aaron Rowand to a five year and $60 million contract.
The Giants finished spring training with a record of 9–23–2, the worst spring training in their recorded history. The Giants had the highest ERA and the lowest batting average among teams whose spring training was in Arizona. The team lead the majors with 40 errors. The Giants lost a spring training game 4–3 to their Triple-A affiliate Fresno Grizzlies. Giants opening day starter Barry Zito allowed 24 earned runs in 25 innings in Spring training.
Giants spring training included injuries and competitions for several roster positions. Steve Holm won the back up catcher spot against Eliezer Alfonzo and Guillermo Rodríguez. Relievers Merkin Valdez, Erick Threets, and Keiichi Yabu earned spots on the opening day roster. Noah Lowry, Vinnie Chulk, Kevin Frandsen and Omar Vizquel started the season the on disabled list. Brian Bocock was the opening day shortstop in place of Vizquel. Steve Kline was designated for assignment. The Giants claimed Jose Castillo off waivers from the Florida Marlins late March 2008. He was the opening day third baseman. Kevin Correia won the competition to be the teams 5th starter.
The Giants were widely expected to miss the playoffs in 2008, according to numerous sports writers.
Read more about this topic: 2008 San Francisco Giants Season