Giants sign Randy Johnson

December 27, 3:00 AMMLB ExaminerAlex Brown

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The Giants have one solid left handed starting pitcher.

No, I’m not talking about Barry Zito – I’m talking about Randy Johnson, who agreed to terms with the San Francisco Giants on a one-year deal worth 8 million dollars.  Johnson has won 5 Cy Young awards and most recently pitched for the Arizona Diamondbacks.  He expressed a desire to pitch in his native California in 2009.

The Giants must have a thing for older players on the cusp of history – Barry Bonds broke the all-time home run record in 2007, and Johnson will more than likely reach 300 wins with the club.  While Johnson isn’t the pitcher he was in previous years, he’s still a solid starter, and is more reliable than any other lefty on the Giants staff.  He posted a 3.91 ERA in 2008 and won 11 games for the Diamondbacks while striking out almost one batter per inning and keeping the walks to a minimum. 

This is a great signing for the Giants – while the team is rebuilding, it’s important to bring in veterans who have experience winning, and Randy Johnson is a former World Series MVP.  Even if he falls off somewhat, he’s just about guaranteed to earn his 300th victory in a Giants uniform.  Plus, who knows, maybe another Giants lefty will learn a thing or two about how to attack hitters, and that alone would be worth the investment. 

So, let's hear from the Giants fans.  What do you think of this signing?