The San Francisco Giants have announced that third baseman Matt Chapman is their only finalist for the prestigious Silver Slugger award, honoring the top offensive players in Major League Baseball (MLB). This recognition comes as Chapman, who has had notable performances this season, stands out among his peers despite the competition.
Chapman, 32, has had a strong season, hitting .231 with 21 home runs and a .770 on-base-plus-slugging percentage (OPS), showcasing his offensive capabilities. His nomination marks his second consecutive year as a finalist for this award, a significant achievement in a league filled with talented players. The last Giants player to win a Silver Slugger was Buster Posey in 2021.
Recognition Amid Competitive Field
While players like Willy Adames and Rafael Devers made headlines with impressive home run totals—Adames becoming the first Giants player since Barry Bonds to hit 30 home runs—none matched Chapman’s accolade this season. The Louisville Slugger company announced Chapman as one of four finalists for the Silver Slugger at third base in the National League, joining Manny Machado (San Diego Padres), Max Muncy (Los Angeles Dodgers), and Austin Riley (Atlanta Braves).
Despite being overlooked for the Gold Glove award earlier this month, which recognizes defensive excellence, Chapman’s offensive contributions have garnered him this notable recognition. A five-time Gold Glove winner and two-time Platinum Glove recipient, he is still in pursuit of the Silver Slugger, which has eluded him throughout his career.
Voting and Announcement Details
The Silver Slugger award is determined by votes from managers and coaches of each National League team, with each team allowed four ballots. The winner will be announced on November 6, 2023, providing an opportunity for Chapman to finally secure this coveted honor for his offensive prowess.
As the Giants continue to reshape their roster and develop their strategy, Chapman’s recognition as a finalist highlights his critical role in the team. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as the announcement date approaches, eager to see if Chapman will add the Silver Slugger to his impressive list of accolades.
