It Wasn't Sexy, But the Remaking of the San Francisco Giants Bullpen Has Begun

While Jeremy Affeldt wasn't the biggest name out on the free agent market, he certainly has been brought to San Francisco to sure up on the Giants' most pressing needs.

The 29-year-old left hander, who spent all of 2008 with the Cincinnati Reds, signed a two-year, $7 million contract with the Giants, general manager Brian Sabean announced Monday.

"Though just 29, Jeremy brings a solid veteran presence to our bullpen," Sabean said in a press release. "There is no doubt he has been able to shoulder a heavy workload. He has been to the post-season and will help bridge the gap between our young and talented starting staff and our closer, Brian Wilson, who is one of the best in the game. We are excited to have Jeremy as a Giant."

After spending most of his seven-year career with Kansas City and Colorado, Affeldt will now be looked upon to provide late-inning help and bridge the gap between the Giants' starters and closer Brian Wilson.

Tim Lincecum, Matt Cain, and Jonathan Sanchez, you are now allowed to show your happiness.

It's obvious the Giants needed something in the bullpen. Although Affeldt's career numbers won't blow your brains away, 4.55 ERA and 1.48 WHIP in 360 games, he is coming off of seasons where he recorded an ERA of 3.53 and 3.31 in Colorado and Cincinnati, respectively. He also had a strong finish to his 2008 season with the Reds, recording a 2.23 ERA in his final 34 outings.

And this move is certainly not the end of the bullpen remaking. The Giants will certainly have, and will continue to be in contact with the agents for veteran relievers. The San Francisco Chronicle is reporting that the Giants relievers Bobby Howry, Joe Beimel, Juan Cruz, Brandon Lyon, Will Ohman and David Weathers are all on Sabean's radar.

A busy off season has gotten started. Although it may not have the eye-popping appeal of a Mark Teixiera or CC Sabathia, this is certainly a step in the right direction.

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