San Francisco Giants have made significant roster moves as they prepare for the 2026 MLB season, officially claiming former Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Justin Dean and left-handed pitcher Reiver Sanmartin off waivers on Thursday, November 6, 2025. The additions are aimed at bolstering both their defensive depth and bullpen stability following a challenging offseason.
Giants bring in Justin Dean to boost outfield versatility
Dean, 28, played a key role for the Dodgers late in the 2025 season, primarily as a defensive replacement and pinch runner. Although his offensive appearances were limited — just two at-bats across 31 games — his speed and awareness on the field proved crucial for Los Angeles. Dean recorded two stolen bases and scored a run in Game 4 of the NLDS against the Philadelphia Phillies.
He became a household name after a remarkable moment in Game 6 of the World Series, when his quick thinking potentially saved the Dodgers from disaster. On a double hit by Addison Barger that became lodged in the wall, Dean immediately raised his hands to signal to the umpire that the ball was stuck — a move that resulted in an automatic double and prevented a run from scoring. That alertness earned him praise for his baseball IQ and game awareness.
Justin Dean has a career batting average of .252 over seven seasons in the minor leagues. In 2025, he impressed with the AAA OKC Dodgers, hitting .289 with six home runs and 33 RBIs in 90 games. His arrival provides the Giants with a defensive upgrade and valuable speed off the bench — attributes that could play a key role in late-game situations.
Reiver Sanmartin adds crucial depth to San Francisco Giants’ bullpen
Alongside Dean, the Giants claimed Reiver Sanmartin, a 29-year-old left-handed pitcher previously with the Cincinnati Reds. Sanmartin brings a mix of experience and form, having appeared in 62 MLB games across four seasons with a 5.66 career ERA.
While his major league stats are modest, his 2025 performance in AAA Louisville showed a resurgence. Sanmartin delivered an impressive 7-2 record with a 2.67 ERA and 55 strikeouts across 67.1 innings. His lone MLB outing last year was solid as well — he threw 1.2 innings, struck out two batters, and allowed no runs.
For San Francisco, this move addresses a critical need. The San Francisco Giants’ bullpen has been in flux since trading away top relievers Tyler Rogers and Camilo Doval at the 2025 trade deadline. Compounding matters, closer Randy Rodriguez is expected to miss the entire 2026 season after undergoing Tommy John surgery.
Reiver Sanmartin now joins Matt Gage, Joey Lucchesi, and Erik Miller as the left-handed relief options on the 40-man roster, giving manager Bob Melvin greater flexibility heading into the season.