'Good chance' Zito will work in relief against Padres

SAN FRANCISCO -- Barry Zito's five-inning effort Wednesday night probably was his final start with the Giants. But it might not have been his final game.

Giants manager Bruce Bochy indicated after Thursday night's 3-2 victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers that Zito, whose seven-year, $126 million contract is about to expire, could appear in relief during this weekend's season-ending series against the San Diego Padres at AT&T Park.

"There's a good chance he'll be out there," Bochy said.

Zito, who's 5-11 with a 5.75 ERA, was dropped from the starting rotation twice this year but was given Wednesday's assignment to acknowledge the positive attitude he has maintained throughout his uneven Giants career.