Since May 16, when the San Francisco Giants routed the Oakland Athletics 9-1, the bats have gone ice cold. The team hasn’t scored more than four runs in a game since that blowout — a glaring concern for an offense once known for its depth and opportunism.
One unexpected contributor to this slump is the regression of veteran MLBbro LaMonte Wade Jr. After two highly productive seasons in San Francisco — where he posted a 120 OPS+ in both 2023 and 2024 — Wade has completely fallen off in 2025. In 50 games, he’s managed just a .167 batting average with a .275 on-base percentage and a .271 slugging percentage, good for a disappointing 59 OPS+. With only one home run on the season, the Giants made a tough but necessary decision to shake things up.
Lamonte Wade Jr. Is Putting Up On Base Percentage Numbers Like Barry Bonds
A New Direction for the Giants
On Tuesday, June 4, the Giants designated Wade for assignment, opening the door to potentially move him via trade, outright release, or minor league assignment. The front office, led by Buster Posey, is actively seeking solutions to jolt the offense. As part of that plan, the team signed MLBbro Dominic Smith to a one-year major league contract — hoping the former Mets slugger can provide power and consistency at first base, where Wade had been a staple. Just as Smith may benefit from a change of scenery in San Francisco, Wade could do the same elsewhere.
LaMonte Wade Jr. Is Doing Everything He Can To Get San Francisco Back To MLB Playoffs
What’s Next for LaMonte Wade Jr.?
Though Wade’s 2025 numbers are discouraging, the league has a long memory. His performance the last two seasons—particularly his on-base skills and clutch hitting—makes him a candidate for a bounce-back in the right situation.
Teams like the Seattle Mariners, St. Louis Cardinals, and Cincinnati Reds are intriguing fits. All three have youthful cores, potential playoff aspirations, and could benefit from a veteran who can handle both first base and corner outfield duties. While Wade isn’t a superstar, his leadership and past production make him a low-risk, potentially high-reward addition.
Another name to watch? The Philadelphia Phillies. They’ve had consistent postseason success but often lack veteran bats off the bench. The MLBbro could thrive in a limited role, especially if used strategically against right-handed pitching.
Why He’s Still Worth a Shot
Sure, his current OBP and SLG won’t excite front offices — but the bigger picture might. Wade’s two-year track record shows a player capable of posting strong at-bats, drawing walks, and occasionally delivering in clutch moments. Teams that deploy platoon-based approaches can limit his exposure to lefties and maximize his value.
If used properly, Wade could be the kind of role player who gives a contending team just a bit more edge — a steady presence who’s been there before, and can get it done again.
Final Thoughts
LaMonte Wade Jr.’s 2025 season didn’t go as planned, but that doesn’t mean the story is over. Sometimes a change of scenery is exactly what a player needs. Whether it’s in Seattle, St. Louis, or Philadelphia, there’s a strong case to be made that this MLBbro still has more to give.
