The San Francisco Giants were obviously not thrilled about Buster Posey's retirement, but they felt the catching position was in good hands. Top prospect Joey Bart was an exciting young player with a high ceiling. However, Bart struggled to the tune of a .156/.296/.300 slash line with a .596 OPS and four home runs.
His poor performance recently forced the Giants hand, as the team officially optioned him to Triple-A on Wednesday. San Francisco also acquired catcher Austin Wynns from the Phillies in a corresponding move.
Bart played 33 games during the 2020 season. He hit over .230 with an OPS upwards of .600. Although Bart did not set the world on fire, the Giants felt as if they had a budding star in their midst. However, Bart only received that opportunity because Posey opted not to play in 2020.
But Posey returned in 2021 and Joey Bart played in all of two MLB games as a result.
Bart once again received an opportunity in 2022 with Posey announcing his retirement during the offseason. But Bart has obviously failed to take advantage.
Speculation has begun to stir about the Giants potentially being interested in Chicago Cubs catcher Wilson Contreras. Contreras is expected to be available at the trade deadline since the Cubs are projected to be sellers. If the Giants are ready to move past Bart they could include him in a trade.
With that being said, Bart is still just 25 years old. Replacing a legend like Buster Posey takes time. So San Francisco may be inclined to give him another chance later this season.
Only time will tell what is next for the Giants and Joey Bart. For now, the young catcher will try to find his rhythm in the minor leagues.
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