**Robbie Ray Chooses to Stay with Giants, Declines Opt-Out Clause**

In a noteworthy decision, left-handed pitcher Robbie Ray has opted to waive his opt-out clause, guaranteeing his stay with the San Francisco Giants through the 2025 and 2026 seasons. The report was initially broken by ESPN's Jeff Passan. Ray's current contract, originally a five-year, $115 million deal with the Mariners signed before the 2022 season, is structured to pay him $25 million annually over the next two seasons.

Ray’s decision to remain with the Giants is sensible given his recent injury history. In May of 2023, he underwent Tommy John surgery along with a flexor tendon repair. While in the process of recovery, he was traded from the Mariners to the Giants. Ray managed to return to the mound in 2024 but struggled, managing a 4.70 ERA over seven starts before a left hamstring strain landed him back on the injured list in September.

Despite pitching struggles, Ray would find it challenging to secure a contract surpassing $50 million if he pursued free agency, given his age of 33 and limited play over the past two years. Comparatively, Carlos Rodón, who faced injury concerns but entered free agency at 29, landed a two-year, $44 million deal. Rodón was coming off a strong season, contrasting with Ray’s record of eight starts and a 5.03 ERA since 2022.

Ray’s commitment to the Giants indicates a strategic move to ensure financial stability and potential for recovery. Reclaiming his Cy Young-winning form from 2021, where he delivered a 2.84 ERA and a 32.1% strikeout rate, might be ambitious, yet even partial recovery could significantly bolster his career.

The Giants are set to see changes in their starting rotation, following Blake Snell’s departure. Projected key figures for the 2025 rotation include Logan Webb, Kyle Harrison, and Ray. There remains speculation around others like Jordan Hicks and prospects such as Landen Roupp and Keaton Winn taking on significant roles.

The Giants might also explore the free agent market, headlined by pitchers such as Snell, Corbin Burnes, Max Fried, and Jack Flaherty. Potential trade options could include Garrett Crochet and Sonny Gray as the organization seeks to strengthen its lineup for the upcoming seasons.