Giants DFA December addition Zack Cozart to add pitcher Jake Jewell

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When the Giants traded for Zack Cozart at the Winter Meetings, it didn't seem all that likely that he would make it to Opening Day. It turns out Cozart won't even be at spring training.

The Giants DFA'd the shortstop Monday to clear a roster spot for right-handed pitcher Jake Jewell, who was claimed off waivers from the Los Angeles Angels. The Giants traded for Cozart and the remaining $12 million or so on his deal in order to acquire Angels prospect Will Wilson, the 15th overall pick in last summer's draft and someone the Giants considered taking at No. 10 overall. 

Jewell, 26, has made 21 relief appearances for the Angels the last two seasons, posting a 6.99 ERA with 24 strikeouts in 28 1/3 innings. He has a 4.93 ERA in his minor league career, primarily as a reliever. The Giants figure to have an open competition for bullpen spots in spring training. 

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Cozart has struggled with injuries since signing a big three-year deal with the Angels and hit just .124 in 38 games last season. After acquiring Cozart, Giants president of baseball operations Farhan Zaidi said there was uncertainty about whether he would be ready for the season. The Giants have enough depth at shortstop, with Mauricio Dubon and Donovan Solano behind Brandon Crawford. 

That trade for Cozart wasn't about the big league roster, it was about Wilson. The 21-year-old shortstop now is at the back end of their top 10 prospect list, per some outlets. 

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