Bengie Molina To Stay in San Francisco, Agrees To One-Year Deal

Apparently, the ship never sailed.

Earlier this offseason, Giants GM Brian Sabean said the idea of resigning Bengie Molina had sailed, but reports Tuesday have the Giants resigning the veteran catcher to a one-year deal.

What does this mean for fans of the Orange & Black?

Well, if Molina hits anywhere from sixth to eighth in San Francisco's lineup, then they have significantly upgraded their offense for 2010.

Molina, who arguably had a down year in 2009, despite hitting a career high 20 homers, will probably hit sixth in the Giants lineup this season, a spot much more suited for the veteran catcher.

Last season Molina posted a line of .265/.285/.442 with 80 RBI to go along with the 20 homers and was a solid game caller for San Francisco's impressive pitching staff.

However, his .285 OBP was his worst mark in over six seasons and hitting cleanup for the Giants was an a embarrassment to the fan base.

But if the 10-year veteran can keep up his power stroke while hitting lower in the order, it will boost the Giants postseason chances considerably in 2010.

However, once again, Giants management is putting off giving their younger players a shot to prove themselves at the big league level.

While this apparent resigning should improve their chances for this upcoming season, it could considerably decrease their chances in 2011 as top prospect Buster Posey will have to take his first full year lumps in 2011 as opposed to this season.

If these reports are true, look for the Giants 2010 lineup to look as follows:

1. Aaron Rowand CF

2. Freddy Sanchez 2B

3. Pablo Sandoval 3B

4. Aubrey Huff 1B

5. Mark DeRosa LF

6. Bengie Molina C

7. Nate Schierholtz RF

8. Edgar Renteria SS