Joel Peguero Makes Waves at Giants Camp

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — Ever since his inaugural bullpen session at Scottsdale Stadium, Joel Peguero has been a hot topic at Giants camp.

The 27-year-old right-handed pitcher was relatively unknown when he joined the Giants on a Minor League contract during the offseason, but he quickly became notable by throwing 101 mph upon his first appearance this spring.

“That was insane,” noted right-hander Keaton Winn. “I was in the middle of my own bullpen, and I could hear the commotion. I turned to see what was happening just two spots down from me. It was all anyone was talking about.”

The excitement continued as Peguero showed consistency during the Cactus League games, reaching a top speed of 102 mph and not allowing any runs over his initial eight exhibition outings, accumulating eight strikeouts and just one walk across 6 2/3 innings pitched.

This impressive performance earned him the 2025 Barney Nugent Award, which recognizes the most outstanding player in their first big league camp with the Giants. Peguero is the first to receive this honor since Dan Otero in 2012, positioning him as a strong contender for a spot on the team’s Opening Day roster.