The San Francisco Giants have designated infielder for assignment, marking a significant shift from just a few years ago when the team appeared ready to commit to him as their starting third baseman following a strong 2022 season.
This news was first reported by Giants beat writer Alex Pavlovic on social media. The decision wasn’t unexpected, as it had been anticipated for some time. Villar was DFA’d to clear a spot on the 40-man roster for reliever Lou Trivino, who impressed during spring training.
With no minor league options remaining and sitting behind Brett Wisely, Casey Schmitt, and Christian Koss on the infield depth chart, Villar didn’t have a clear role on the team. Despite hitting three home runs in spring training, his overall performance—just nine hits in 45 at-bats—was not enough to secure a roster spot.
Additionally, Villar’s primary positions, third base and first base, were already occupied, with Matt Chapman locked in at third and a platoon of LaMonte Wade Jr. and Wilmer Flores at first.
Once a promising prospect, Villar made a strong impression in 2022, posting a .231/.331/.445 slash line with nine home runs and 24 RBIs after being called up late in the season. His performance at the time convinced the front office he could be their long-term answer at third base.
However, he struggled to build on that success, seeing his numbers decline to .145/.236/.315 with five home runs and 12 RBIs in 46 games during the 2023 season. The Giants’ signing of Matt Chapman in the offseason further solidified his uncertain future with the team. Villar played in just 11 games in 2024, making his eventual departure seem inevitable.
At 28, Villar still has time to carve out a role elsewhere in the league. His power to the opposite field remains an intriguing asset, and another team may be willing to take a chance on him. While his time in San Francisco didn’t pan out as hoped, there’s a precedent for players thriving after a change of scenery—such as Joey Bart last season. Whether Villar can follow a similar path remains to be seen.