SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — Tom Murphy, the backup catcher for the San Francisco Giants, is facing a setback due to a herniated disk in his back. He is scheduled to receive an injection, which will sideline him for a minimum of two weeks, potentially impacting his availability for the commencement of the season.
Giants manager Bob Melvin provided updates at the team’s camp, explaining, “It’s going to be a few weeks of inactivity, followed by strengthening and other related activities. After that, there’s a buildup process. So, it’s going to be an extended period.” Melvin also indicated that Murphy might not be ready for opening day on March 27, when the Giants are slated to play in Cincinnati.
Murphy recently entered the second year of a two-year deal worth $8.25 million, which features a club option for 2026. The previous season was cut short for Murphy, as he participated in only 13 games due to a knee injury sustained in May. Injuries have been a recurring theme for him, limiting his appearances to 61 games over the last two seasons with Seattle, including issues with a dislocated left shoulder and a left thumb sprain.
Throughout his career, Murphy has played in 327 major league games, having stints with Colorado, Seattle, and now the Giants. His career batting average stands at .239, alongside 49 home runs and 128 runs batted in.
Patrick Bailey, a Gold Glove recipient, is currently the Giants’ starting catcher. The 25-year-old Bailey concluded last season with a .234 batting average, eight home runs, and 46 RBIs, spending 115 of his 121 games as a catcher.
In addition to Murphy and Bailey, the Giants also have Sam Huff and Max Stassi in training. Huff, acquired off waivers from Texas, is included in their 40-man roster. Meanwhile, Stassi is participating as a non-roster invitee, having not played at the major league level since 2022.
