Matt Chapman’s decision to invest in himself has yielded significant rewards. Following his spring training agreement with the San Francisco Giants, which included the option to opt out after one season, the third baseman finalized a new six-year contract worth $151 million for the years 2025 through 2030.
Chapman expressed his confidence in his abilities during a Thursday news conference, stating, “This offseason was a little strange with the free-agent market, but I was willing to bet on myself. I believed in myself. I believed that the Giants would see my value as the season went on.”
Initially, Chapman signed with the Giants under a deal guaranteeing $54 million over three seasons, which allowed him to opt out after the 2024 and 2025 seasons. The contract included a $2 million signing bonus and a $16 million salary for 2024. He was one of several athletes represented by agent Scott Boras who signed contracts after the start of spring training.
Boras remarked, “The game rewards players like this,” highlighting Chapman’s performance and commitment. Giants president of baseball operations Farhan Zaidi mentioned that discussions about Chapman’s new contract started weeks ago. As part of his new agreement, Chapman will receive a signing bonus of $1 million payable on January 15 and an annual salary of $25 million. The contract also includes a full no-trade clause.
Zaidi emphasized the team’s commitment to competing, saying, “When we have an opportunity to get a great player who’s willing to bet on himself, that’s always an attractive proposition.” Chapman acknowledged the importance of finalizing his deal, expressing relief and readiness to focus on the game.
Chapman returned to the lineup on Thursday and played a key role in the Giants’ 3-2 victory over Arizona. Giants manager Bob Melvin, who previously managed Chapman in Oakland, noted that he has taken on a leadership role within the team, especially for younger players who look up to his work ethic and example.
Chapman, a 2019 All-Star, is currently batting .247 while leading the Giants with 22 home runs, 69 RBIs, 91 runs, and 34 doubles. He has a career .241 batting average with 177 home runs and 495 RBIs over his time with the Oakland Athletics, Toronto Blue Jays, and now the Giants.
As a native of California, Chapman feels at home in the Bay Area and dismissed concerns about San Francisco’s appeal to free agents, stating that other players have expressed interest in joining the Giants following his new contract announcement. He believes the organization is exceptional and is committed to building a strong team.
Additionally, pitcher Blake Snell, who took the mound Thursday, recently signed a two-year deal worth $62 million, also including an opt-out clause for this season. Boras stressed the importance of players performing well and how it can attract interest from others in the league.
When questioned about the future of the Giants and their playoff prospects, Zaidi chose not to comment further.