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Giants Matt Chapman and Manager Tony Vitello Say Theyve Not Been Told About a Trade
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Giants Matt Chapman and Manager Tony Vitello Say Theyve Not Been Told About a Trade

When the rumor mill starts churning around a possible move for San Francisco’s Matt Chapman, the third baseman and the rookie manager both give the same answer: no word from the front office.

On June 16, 2026, as the Giants prepare to face the Atlanta Braves in a three‑game slate, Chapman told the California Post that he has not heard from President of Baseball Operations Buster Posey about a trade. He added that, with no communication from Posey, the idea of waiving the no‑trade clause in his six‑year, $151 million extension—signed after the 2023 season—has never crossed his mind.

“I haven’t heard anything from Buster,” Chapman said. “So it hasn’t really crossed my mind.” The clause, which was a sticking point in earlier talks, would need to be lifted for him to move to another club.

Vitello, who stepped into the Giants’ managerial role after a standout college career with the Tennessee Volunteers, echoed that sentiment. “I haven’t been directed that that’s the case at all,” he told reporters. He noted that while some feelers may have been exchanged, he has not received a clear directive from Posey or the front office. “What actually happens after the discussions is probably a much more narrow focus,” he added.

The Giants sit 14 games below .500 and are out of playoff contention, with FanGraphs estimating a 2.5 % chance of making the postseason by the trade deadline on August 3. Despite the lack of a playoff push, the club has reportedly begun listening to offers for several key players, according to ESPN’s Buster Olney and MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand.

Chapman’s season‑long numbers—batting .261 with seven home runs and 39 RBIs—have made him a desirable option for teams looking to upgrade the hot corner. His defensive pedigree, highlighted by five Gold Glove awards, only adds to his value. A willingness to entertain offers for him could signal a shift in the Giants’ long‑term strategy.

Posey’s influence on the roster has been profound. He inked a franchise‑record eight‑year, $167 million extension for himself in 2013 and has overseen significant financial commitments to players like shortstop Willy Adames and first baseman Rafael Devers. The current chatter about potentially moving long‑term contracts raises questions about the front office’s future plans.

The trade rumors also frame the broader context of the 2026 MLB trade deadline, which is expected to be a hotbed of activity. If the Giants become a seller, it could ripple through the market, affecting teams with short‑term deals such as pitcher Robbie Ray and outfielder Luis Arraez.

For now, both Chapman and Vitello remain focused on the present. “There’s still a ton of good people in this clubhouse,” Chapman said. “I know we haven’t put it all together yet, but I still believe in this team.”

As August approaches, the Giants’ next moves will be watched closely. Whether the organization keeps its core intact or parts with key pieces will have lasting implications for its competitive window and financial flexibility.

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