Seven homers, .692 OPS: Giants can't afford another down year from Matt Chapman
Power dropped sharply in 2026
His home-run pace slowed to about once every 50 plate appearances, roughly half as often as in 2025. Though his batting average rose four points, his slugging percentage fell 62 points. His strikeout rate remained near 23% in both seasons.
The largest change came on contact: his hard-hit rate fell from 47.6% to 35.8%, while his barrel rate declined from 9.9% to 6.6%. Both were career lows.
Injury disrupted his season
Chapman suffered an abdominal strain in April and played through it before going on the injured list July 1. He eventually underwent season-ending core muscle surgery in August.
A right-handed bat is needed
San Francisco finished 26th in the majors in runs. A deadline trade sending Heliot Ramos to the New York Yankees left the Giants with one fewer established right-handed power hitter.
Key points
- Chapman hit seven home runs and posted a career-low .692 OPS in 2026.
- An abdominal strain and core muscle surgery limited him to 84 games.
- His defense remains an asset, with 16 Defensive Runs Saved when his surgery was reported.
- The Giants need right-handed power, and Chapman could complement Rafael Devers and Bryce Eldridge.