Brian Sabean started this off-season by signing Josh Phelps on a no risk contract. Now he's signed Jeremy Affeldt for two years and four million annually. Frankly, I'm starting to question what happened to the real Sabean. At this rate I need him to sign Jon Garland or Pat Burrell to a huge deal to remind me of his putrid recent transactions history.
Affeldt automatically becomes the best reliever in the Giants bullpen, although Sergio Romo and Brian Wilson are decent, and might find himself closing at some point. He has the added bonus of being left-handed, although his career splits don't show it. Affeldt increased his velocity and started using his change-up more last season. A regression in HR/FB% is worth noting, as is the decreased pLI Affeldt faced in 2008 versus 2007.
He's a huge upgrade over Tyler Walker and Brad Hennessy, and at this price, you really can't argue with the move. Even if the Giants aren't close to contending, at least they're showing signs of competence.