The San Francisco Giants may be getting a major boost just in time for a crucial stretch of the season.
Third baseman Matt Chapman, sidelined since June 8 with a right hand sprain, is trending toward a return ahead of the team’s six-game homestand starting July 7 against the Phillies.
Chapman took batting practice on Monday, and manager Bob Melvin told reporters it’s possible the veteran could be activated for the start of the homestand.
With the All-Star break looming, San Francisco has a narrow window to reestablish momentum — and having Chapman back on the field would be a major lift.
Giants Win More With Chapman
The impact of Matt Chapman on the Giants this season has been hard to miss. When Chapman plays, San Francisco is 37–28 — a .569 winning percentage. Without him, they’re just 8–11, a .421 mark. That’s the difference between contending for a postseason spot and falling out of the Wild Card picture entirely.
This isn’t about flashy numbers. Chapman isn’t leading the league in home runs or batting average. But his influence is real. He’s one of the best defensive third basemen in the league and brings structure to both the infield and the lineup. His bat, though streaky, offers just enough power to change games when it’s on — and his glove changes games regardless.
Even when he’s not producing offensively, Chapman plays clean baseball, makes smart decisions, and provides a level of professionalism that’s hard to quantify — but easy to see in the win column.
Why Chapman Matters So Much to the Giants
The Giants have been one of the most inconsistent teams in the National League this season, dealing with injuries to key players like Jung Hoo Lee and thin production from parts of the lineup. Chapman’s presence brings clarity.
When Chapman is at third base, it stabilizes the entire infield. Defensive shifts make more sense. Pitchers have more confidence inducing contact. The bullpen benefits from the fewer high-stress innings. The whole machine runs smoother.
His absence since June 8 has coincided with a stretch of flat, uninspired baseball. San Francisco went 8–11 during that span, struggling to generate momentum. The timing of his injury couldn’t have been worse, but his return could spark a second-half surge.
Chapman had been putting together a solid season before the injury. While his slash line — .243/.328/.422 — won’t win awards, his defense and leadership added critical value. His 11 home runs in 65 games were on pace to match his typical power production, and his WAR remained one of the highest among Giants position players.
The Giants’ six-game homestand against the Phillies and Twins offers a critical opportunity to climb in the standings before the All-Star break. Getting Matt Chapman back for that stretch could be the difference between momentum and mediocrity.
If Chapman is activated early next week as expected, he’ll have a chance to shake off rust and help anchor the team heading into the second half of the season.
The Giants certainly win more games when Chapman is in the lineup, and he’ll be back soon.
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