The Giants have added a greatly needed spark to their lineup, after reaching a three-year deal worth $42 million, which includes a $9 million signing bonus, with slugger Jorge Soler according to source. 

Turning 32 on Feb. 25, Soler played with the Marlins for the previous two seasons. In 2023, he hit a career-high 36 home runs to earn his first All-Star selection. Over 137 games, Soler put up a slash line of .250/.341/.512 with a 128 OPS+, leading Miami to an unexpected postseason appearance.

After turning down the Marlins' $13 million player option, Soler became a free agent. Ultimately, he used his 2023 turnaround season to secure a multiyear contract with the Giants, who needed another strong right-handed bat.

In 2024, Soler will probably be the starting designated hitter for the Giants, leading a lineup that includes Jung Hoo Lee, a center fielder from Korea, who received a six-year, $113 million contract in December.

Since Barry Bonds in 2004, the Giants haven't had a hitter record a 30-home run season. However, if Soler is able to capitalize on his 2023 campaign, the streak could soon be ended.

A career full of highs and lows would account for Soler's last two seasons. The Havana native became a highly sought prospect after signing a contract with the Cubs in 2012. In late 2014, he made his Major League debut. In 2016, he led Chicago in ending their championship drought. He was then traded for closer Wade Davis to the Royals the following winter, but his inconsistent performance and injuries persisted there.

Even though Soler swings and misses a lot, his contact rate is consistently among the best in the league. According to Statcast, he was in the 91st percentile for barrel rate in 2023 and the 94th percentile for predicted slugging and expected wOBA. But defense is more of a concern.  According to Statcast, Soler has a career outs above average of -24. In 2023, the Marlins utilized Soler significantly more at DH with 102 starts than in the outfield with 31 starts. 

The Giants clubhouse look forward to some insurance of adding a strong bat to their lineup.