Giles trade from San Diego to Boston falls through
Associated Press
DENVER — A possible trade to send Brian Giles from San Diego to Boston fell through today, and the Padres outfielder said he was upset that details of the talks became public.
"I didn't know everybody was supposed to know, especially when it wasn't a done deal and it wouldn't go down," Giles said before the Padres opened a three-game series against the Colorado Rockies.
Giles was claimed off of waivers by the Red Sox on Wednesday, and the teams had 48 hours to complete a deal. Giles had to consent to be traded, and the Red Sox were one of eight teams on his no-trade list. He wouldn't say who killed the deal — several reports said he refused to give his consent.
"It's kind of between myself and my agent and Boston and the Padres," he said. "I don't think really anything needs to be said other than I made a commitment to play for this team for three or four years, and at the end that's where I still stand."
The waiver claim was first reported Thursday by the San Diego Union-Tribune.
Giles is in the third year and final guaranteed season of his contract with the Padres, who have a $9 million option for next year with a $3 million buyout. The 37-year-old Giles began Friday with a .295 average, six homers and a team-high .390 on-base percentage.
"I signed a three-, possibly four-year deal here. I'm committed to fulfill that contract. If next year doesn't work out with the option, I'll be a free agent and I can choose where I go," he said.
Giles, who grew up in the San Diego area, wants to finish his career with the Padres.
"I don't know how many years I have left," he said. "I've had a good time here in San Diego. Like I've preached before, the same games we've been the last couple of years that we've won we haven't won any of those this year. Given our division and how young it is, it's going to be inconsistent for the next two or three years, so I feel there's an opportunity here. Obviously, there are pieces missing and we need to address those pieces.
"I've had a couple of dings this year, but I've been able to take some days off. I know I have a few years left; hopefully it is with San Diego."