Bochy wants long-relief option on roster

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. -- Manager Bruce Bochy confirmed the assumption that the Giants' season-opening pitching staff will include at least one long reliever.

"Whoever's our best fit," Bochy said Sunday.

Leading candidates for this role include left-hander David Huff and right-hander Yusmeiro Petit. In 44 career starts, Petit is 13-18 with a 4.91 ERA, including his 4-1 finish with the Giants last year. His totals are marginally better than Huff's figures as a starter (17-27, 5.57 in 54 starts).

Until last year, the Giants' starting rotation was so consistent and effective that keeping a long reliever was mostly unnecessary. Guillermo Mota occupied the role on the rare occasions when multiple innings had to be consumed.