The Giants knew what they were getting when they acquired Kris Bryant.
They knew that his offensive approach blended power and patience. They knew he had an athletic swing that was a bit unorthodox. They knew that his production could be streaky at times, but he’d be steady from an on-base perspective. They knew they could float him from third base to the outfield and that he’d be willing to play just about anywhere. They knew they were getting a professional player with postseason experience. They knew he’d be a good fit in their clubhouse, and that geographically, San Francisco would be a good fit for him. They knew he’d be motivated as he approaches free agency for the first time.
But there’s a reason department stores have fitting rooms. You don’t know for sure until you try something on.
Bryant played his 40th game as a Giant on Sunday, and you don’t have to look too carefully to notice that there have been a few loose threads in his game. He started in right field and failed to haul in either of two difficult but potentially catchable deep fly balls in Triples Alley in a 3-0 loss to the Atlanta Braves. He started in center field in Thursday’s loss to the Padres and didn’t display the greatest range or closing speed on a hit that fell in front of him. He’s committed four errors at third base, mostly on throws that have sailed on him.
His positional versatility was one of his most alluring attributes. But defensively, he hasn’t impressed at any position.
