Luis Arraez Says He ‘Worked My (Expletive) Off’ as Giants Face a Trade Deadline Decision

The San Francisco Giants are approaching the trade deadline as sellers, and no name has been floated more often than Luis Arraez. But the two-time batting champion isn’t letting the noise distract him from what’s shaping up to be the best all-around season of his career.

Speaking with USA Today’s Bob Nightengale, Arraez opened up about the work he put in this offseason to silence critics who doubted he could improve defensively while maintaining his elite contact hitting. So far, the numbers back him up: a .326 batting average, 105 hits, four home runs, 32 RBIs, and a league-best 3.6 percent strikeout rate.

“I don’t think anyone thought I could do this but me,” Arraez said. “I proved them wrong, I worked my (expletive) off to have this season. And I think it’s the best all-around season I’ve ever had.”

The 27-year-old infielder has noticeably improved at second base, turning what was once a liability into a strength. That development makes him even more attractive to contenders looking for a versatile bat who can hit for average and play solid defense up the middle.

Arraez also addressed the trade rumors head-on, with a measured tone that reflects his focus on the field.

“If they give me an opportunity, I’d love to stay,” Arraez said. “I really enjoy it here. But it’s a business. I’m not paying any attention to any of the trade stuff. I just want to continue to work hard and focus on my job. Really, that’s all I can do.”

Giants manager calls Arraez ‘phenomenal’

Giants manager Tony Vitello didn’t hold back when asked about Arraez’s impact on the clubhouse and the diamond.

“I don’t think there’s anybody out there that you could accuse of lack of overall focus or effort, but if we could match his energy and his determination as a group, we’d be in a pretty good spot,” Vitello said. “He’s just a pro. He can do a lot of different things for you.”

The question is whether the Giants see him as part of their long-term plans or as a trade chip to restock a farm system that needs depth. Arraez is under team control beyond this season, which gives San Francisco leverage. But if the offers are strong enough, president of baseball operations Farhan Zaidi may decide a rebuild is worth it.

For now, Arraez keeps hitting, keeps fielding, and keeps ignoring the calendar. The deadline will come. But the work has already been done.