The 1971 MLB Trade That Still Makes Giants Fans Angry

The 1971 Reds-Giants Trade: A Lopsided Deal That Changed MLB History In May 1971, the San Francisco Giants, then leading the National League West, made a trade that would later be viewed as one of the most lopsided in MLB history. They traded young outfielder George Foster to the Cincinnati Reds in exchange for Frank Duffy and Vern Geishert. This trade, while seemingly insignificant at the time, would have a profound impact on both teams' futures. The Giants' clubhouse was reportedly in an uproar following the trade. One player is quoted as saying off the record to reporters from UPI and the Associated Press, "Who's going to play outfield now?" This quote highlights the immediate concern and dissatisfaction among the Giants' players regarding the loss of Foster. While Foster initially struggled with the Reds, he eventually blossomed into an MVP-caliber player, hitting numerous home runs and accumulating a significant number of RBIs in subsequent seasons. In contrast, Duffy and Geishert failed to make a significant contribution to the Giants' team. The Reds, meanwhile, went on to build a dynasty, with Foster playing a key role in their success. This trade serves as a cautionary tale in the history of MLB player trades, highlighting the unpredictable nature of player development and the potential consequences of seemingly minor decisions.