Giants trying to trade Chris Heston; Mariners interested

The Giants are reportedly working to move Chris Heston before the end of the winter meetings, presumably to open a spot on their 40-man roster. Jon Morosi reports that the Mariners are a potential landing spot.

Heston was a member of San Francisco’s starting rotation in 2015, making 31 starts and posting a 3.95 ERA in 177.2 innings. He struck out 141 batters, but struggled with his control, walking 64 and hitting another 13. With the return of Matt Cain, the Giants started him in the bullpen in 2016, and Heston struggled. After four appearances, he was sent to Triple-A Sacramento, where he put up a 3.77 ERA in 13 starts before succumbing to an oblique strain and missing the rest of the regular season.

Heston would likely compete for a spot in Seattle’s rotation next spring with Robert Whalen and Ariel Miranda if that deal gets done. He could serve as low-cost depth somewhere as well, as he is not eligible for arbitration until 2019. While he does have a no-hitter under his belt, Heston really does not have great stuff, with a fastball that averages around 90 miles per hour and mediocre offspeed offerings. Buyer beware.