Sabean joined the Giants organization in 1993 as an assistant to the general manager and vice president of scouting/player personnel. His keen eye for talent and strategic thinking quickly became apparent. In 1996, he was promoted to general manager, a position he held for nearly two decades. During his time as GM, Sabean was known for his bold moves and willingness to make decisions that others might shy away from.
One of Sabean's most talked-about trades occurred shortly after he became GM, when he traded fan-favorite Matt Williams to the Cleveland Indians in exchange for a package that included Jeff Kent. This move was initially met with skepticism, but it ultimately paid off as Kent became a key player for the Giants, winning the National League MVP award in 2000.
Under Sabean's leadership, the Giants experienced a resurgence. The team reached the World Series in 2002, marking their first appearance in the Fall Classic since 1989. Although they fell short against the Anaheim Angels, the Giants' performance that season was a testament to Sabean's ability to assemble a competitive roster.
Sabean's tenure was also marked by the development and acquisition of several standout players. He played a crucial role in drafting and nurturing homegrown talent such as Tim Lincecum, Matt Cain, and Madison Bumgarner. These players would become the backbone of the Giants' pitching staff and were instrumental in the team's later successes.
The Giants' fortunes peaked in the early 2010s, when they won three World Series titles in five years (2010, 2012, and 2014). Sabean's strategic acquisitions and focus on pitching depth were widely credited for these achievements. The 2010 championship was particularly significant, as it marked the Giants' first World Series win since moving to San Francisco in 1958.
Sabean's approach to team-building often involved a mix of veteran presence and young talent. He was adept at identifying undervalued players who could contribute in meaningful ways. This strategy was evident in the acquisition of players like Cody Ross and Marco Scutaro, who played pivotal roles in the Giants' postseason runs.
Throughout his career, Sabean was known for his low-key demeanor and preference for staying out of the spotlight. He focused on building a strong organizational culture and fostering a winning mentality within the team. His efforts were recognized in 2003 when he was named Executive of the Year by The Sporting News.
In 2015, Sabean transitioned to a new role within the Giants organization, becoming the executive vice president of baseball operations. This move marked the end of his tenure as general manager but allowed him to continue influencing the team's direction and strategy.
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