The Giants will face the Lions on Aug. 17 in preseason game No. 2 for both teams, but it is likely they will see plenty of each other before kickoff. If new head coach Pat Shurmur has his way, there will be a series of joint practices leading up to the game, which would put the Giants in Allen Park, Mich. for a few days this summer.
Pat Valaika (R), fewer than 1 percent, Colorado Rockies at Pittsburgh Pirates (LHP Steven Brault): This is for the deepest of leagues: With Nolan Arenado still serving his suspension, look for Valaika at one of the corner infield spots. He’s incurring a huge park downgrade but does have a little pop versus right-handers.
Adrian Gonzalez (L), 8 percent, New York Mets vs. Washington Nationals (RHP Jeremy Hellickson): Hellickson is set to make his 2018 debut, bumping A.J. Cole from the rotation. After posting a surprisingly effective 2016 season, Hellickson struggled last year, fanning fewer hitters while allowing a hefty 35 homers in 164 innings. Gonzalez, and fellow lefty swinger Brandon Nimmo are both in prime lineup spots, aiming to take advantage of the platoon edge.
“I’m very sensitive to the character portion of our process,” Gaine said during his predraft news conference. “We spent a lot of time evaluating that (character) because I’m sensitive to the impact it can have on the locker room, the weight room, the training room and when you get on the practice field.
“I want to know exactly what we’re getting from a football and character standpoint. I’m certainly aware that we’re bringing players into our community, and that weighs heavily on me. I want to make sure we’re bringing good character people here.
Jaire Alexander, Louisville: His performance at the combine — particularly his 4.38 in the 40 — spiked his stock. His footwork and agility also opened eyes. But Alexander missed four games because of a knee injury early in 2017, and then dealt with a broken hand that caused him to miss two more games. So there’s risk coupled with his great skills.