The San Francisco Giants announced several non-roster invitees for spring training, introducing right-hander Michael Fulmer and outfielder Jared Oliva as notable additions to their camp. Fulmer, represented by BBI Sports Group, and Oliva, with Beverly Hills Sports Council, join a group primarily made up of existing organization players or previously reported signings, aiming to compete for roster spots in the upcoming season.
Michael Fulmer’s Career: Promising Start Hampered by Injuries
Michael Fulmer, turning 33 this March, has experienced a mixture of success and setbacks throughout his major league career. A reliable starter for the Detroit Tigers from 2016 to 2018, Fulmer earned the American League Rookie of the Year award in his debut season. However, Tommy John surgery sidelined him for all of 2019, and upon returning, he struggled to regain a starting role, ultimately transitioning to the bullpen. Over the 2021 to 2023 period, Fulmer performed reasonably well as a reliever, but a revision of his ulnar collateral ligament required another surgery, causing him to miss the 2024 season entirely.
Recent Playing Time and Performance
Returning to pitching in 2025, Fulmer spent most of his time in the minor leagues. He made brief appearances in the majors with the Boston Red Sox and Chicago Cubs, totaling just three games. In Triple-A, Fulmer played for the Red Sox, Cubs, Seattle Mariners, and Kansas City Royals organizations last year, pitching 66 1/3 innings with a 3.39 earned run average. Although his walk rate reached 10.5%, which is slightly elevated, he struck out 31% of batters faced, showing signs of effectiveness against hitters.
Challenges Facing the Giants Bullpen
San Francisco’s bullpen has weakened significantly since last season, trading away key relievers Tyler Rogers and Camilo Doval at the trade deadline. Compounding this, Randy RodrÃguez underwent Tommy John surgery in September, further depleting the bullpen depth. The team has not aggressively pursued reinforcements but has focused on low-cost, high-upside acquisitions like Sam Hentges and Jason Foley, both of whom have dealt with injuries. In this environment, Fulmer’s experience gives him a chance to compete for meaningful playing time.
Fulmer’s Potential Role and Past Effectiveness
Joining Gregory Santos as veteran depth on the non-roster invitee list, Michael Fulmer will look to prove he can return to a regular role in the majors. Between 2021 and 2023, Fulmer made 177 appearances with a 3.55 ERA, striking out 24.6% of batters while walking 9.4%. His ground ball rate hovered around 40%, indicating his ability to induce weak contact.
Jared Oliva’s Path and Outfield Competition
Outfielder Jared Oliva, 30, has limited major league exposure, appearing in just 26 games for the Pittsburgh Pirates across the 2020 and 2021 seasons. In that time, he recorded a .179/.220/.214 batting line in 59 plate appearances. Last year, he played in the Milwaukee Brewers’ minor league system, hitting .252/.335/.413 and stealing 57 bases, showcasing his speed and base-running skills. The Giants’ projected outfield features Harrison Bader, Jung Hoo Lee, and Heliot Ramos, with Jerar Encarnación, Drew Gilbert, Luis Matos, and Grant McCray competing for backup roles. Oliva’s ability to contribute on the basepaths could help him secure a bench spot if opportunities arise.
Significance of the Signing and Future Outlook
The Giants’ decision to invite Michael Fulmer on a minor league deal illustrates their willingness to invest in a pitcher with undeniable talent but a history of health challenges. Given the current bullpen vacancies and weakened depth, Fulmer represents a low-risk, potentially valuable addition if he regains form. Similarly, Oliva’s speed and minor league success offer a chance at providing bench versatility. Both players face uphill battles to make the major league roster, but their inclusion signals the Giants’ focus on reclaiming depth and rebuilding a competitive pitching staff and bench for the upcoming season.
Here are the non roster invitees to Giants spring training. pic.twitter.com/TWygHOrpaO
— Shayna Rubin (@ShaynaRubin) February 4, 2026
