Nate ‘The Great’ is looking for more

Maybe I’m biased. But I’m a huge Nate Schierholtz fan.

He’s the player I wholeheartedly nicknamed “Homedog” because he’s from my neck of the woods. I went to Cal High; Nate went to our rivals, San Ramon Valley High. (Go Grizzlies!)

I’m a loyalist when it comes to my Giants, though, especially members of the 2010 World Series squad. I know Schierholtz’s stats have been less-than-stellar since he stomped on the Mets in that New York double-header back in April, yet I still cheer like crazy when I see him in right field late in a game.

So it made me so very sad to fire up SFGate and see that Schierholtz told Henry Schulman he would be up for a trade to another team if it meant more playing time.

After starting 14 of 45 games since early June, Schierholtz told the Chron Wednesday that he feels his brightest future might be elsewhere:

“There’s not one thing I can’t say I love about this place, but I think I’ve come to the realization that maybe I’m not their guy. I’m not in the cards having a future here.”

Quite frankly, that breaks my heart. Again, it could be because I’m biased. But when a guy genuinely wants to stay on a team, somewhat reluctant talks of a trade are discouraging.

The 28-year-old was told by manager Bruce Bochy back in May that he “wouldn’t be an everyday player.” With Gregor Blanco’s continued offensive contributions in the leadoff spot, Bochy has kept The Shark out in right field.

The Chronicle reports neither Nate “The Great” nor Damon Lapa, his agent, have asked the Giants outright for a trade. But Schierholtz is open to the idea if it works best for both him and the team.

Bruce Bochy told Schulman in response to Schierholtz’ comments:

“I understand players want to be out there every day. You don’t blame them. That’s how they should feel. I like Nate. I love Nate in the role he’s had here. He’s done so much contributing in that role.”

Schierholtz has a career .270 batting average with 21 homeruns and 114 RBIs, all with the Giants since 2007.