When the San Francisco Giants signed Jordan Hicks to a four-year, $44 million contract in December 2023, it was a move that raised some eyebrows. The team was taking a gamble on the young flamethrowing reliever, hoping to transform him into a reliable starting pitcher. But with Hicks’ electric stuff and impressive sinker averaging 97.2 mph, the Giants were willing to take the risk.
Fast forward to the present day, and it’s clear that the Giants’ gamble has paid off. Hicks has not only become a reliable starter, but he has also emerged as one of the most dynamic and versatile pitchers in the league. His presence on the mound has been a game-changer for the Giants, and his impact on the team’s success cannot be overstated.
Hicks’ journey to becoming a starting pitcher for the Giants was not an easy one. He had spent the first few years of his career as a dominant reliever, known for his blazing fastball and devastating sinker. But the Giants saw something in him that others didn’t – the potential to be a starter. And with their guidance and support, Hicks has blossomed into a force to be reckoned with on the mound.
One of the key factors in Hicks’ success as a starter has been his ability to harness his electric stuff over longer outings. This was no easy feat, as it required a significant adjustment in his pitching style and approach. But with determination and hard work, Hicks has been able to develop a wider range of pitches and has become more efficient with his pitch count.
The Giants’ decision to convert Hicks into a starter has also proven to be a wise move for the team’s overall strategy. With a strong rotation already in place, the addition of Hicks has only strengthened the Giants’ pitching depth. His versatility has allowed the team to be more flexible with their rotation, giving them the ability to mix and match pitchers based on matchups and rest days.
But it’s not just Hicks’ pitching skills that have made him a valuable asset to the Giants. His leadership and work ethic have also been praised by his teammates and coaches. He is constantly pushing himself to improve and is always willing to put in the extra work to help his team succeed. His positive attitude and determination have been contagious in the Giants’ clubhouse, and he has become a key leader on the team.
The impact of Hicks’ presence on the Giants’ success cannot be ignored. In the 2024 season, he helped lead the team to their first World Series victory in over a decade. His dominant performances on the mound and his ability to rise to the occasion in high-pressure situations were crucial in the team’s championship run. And as the Giants continue to compete for the top spot in the league, Hicks’ contributions will undoubtedly play a significant role.
But it’s not just the Giants who have benefited from Hicks’ transformation into a starter. The Chicago Cubs, who traded for Hicks in the 2025 season, have also reaped the rewards. In exchange for some of their top pitching prospects, the Cubs acquired a versatile and dominant pitcher who has solidified their rotation and given them a chance to compete for a championship.
In conclusion, the San Francisco Giants’ decision to sign Jordan Hicks and convert him into a starting pitcher has proven to be a game-changing move. Hicks’ electric stuff, combined with his determination and leadership, has made him a valuable asset to the team. And as he continues to dominate on the mound, both the Giants and the Cubs will reap the benefits of this bold and successful move.
