The San Francisco Giants have officially promoted catching prospect Drew Cavanaugh to the major league roster, according to a report from Alex Pavlovic of NBC Sports Bay Area. The move, confirmed by the team, involves designating fellow catcher Daniel Susac for assignment to clear a spot on the 40-man roster.
### Why the Giants Added Drew Cavanaugh
The Giants called up Cavanaugh to provide immediate depth and a fresh look behind the plate as the season progresses. Cavanaugh, who was selected by the organization in the 17th round of the 2022 MLB Draft out of Florida State University, has spent the 2024 season developing through the farm system. His promotion serves as a evaluation period for the front office to see how his defensive mechanics and pitch-framing translate to the highest level of professional baseball. By adding him to the active roster, the team gains the flexibility to utilize him in high-leverage defensive situations or as a late-game substitute.
### The Roster Impact of Daniel Susac’s Departure
To accommodate Cavanaugh, the Giants designated Daniel Susac for assignment. Susac, a former first-round pick acquired from the Oakland Athletics in the 2023 trade that sent pitcher Trevor Gott to the New York Mets, has struggled to maintain consistent offensive production at the upper levels of the minor leagues. Designated for assignment (DFA) means Susac is removed from the 40-man roster, giving the Giants seven days to trade, release, or outright him to the minor leagues should he clear waivers. This transaction highlights the organization’s shift in priorities as they prioritize players who have shown greater immediate readiness for MLB pitching.
### Performance Comparison: Cavanaugh vs. Susac
The decision reflects a divergence in the developmental paths of the two catchers. While Susac was previously viewed as a cornerstone prospect following his high draft pedigree, his recent statistical output failed to meet the threshold for a major league call-up. Cavanaugh, meanwhile, earned his promotion through steadier performance in the lower and middle tiers of the minor leagues.
| Player | Acquisition Method | Current Status |
| :— | :— | :— |
| Drew Cavanaugh | 2022 Draft (17th Round) | Active MLB Roster |
| Daniel Susac | 2023 Trade | Designated for Assignment |
### What Happens Next for the Giants Catching Corps
With Cavanaugh now in the mix, the Giants’ catching depth chart remains a fluid situation. The organization continues to balance the need for veteran leadership with the desire to integrate younger, cost-controlled talent. Fans should expect the coaching staff to rotate playing time over the next several weeks to determine who earns the primary backup role heading into the final stretch of the season. The organization’s willingness to move on from a former first-round pick like Susac indicates that the front office is prioritizing current performance over past prospect rankings.