Perez sent down as Affeldt returns to active roster

SAN FRANCISCO -- The impact of Jeremy Affeldt's return to the active roster might be felt more in left field than in the bullpen, which the left-hander rejoined Wednesday.

As anticipated, the Giants optioned reserve outfielder Juan Perez to Triple-A Fresno to clear roster room for Affeldt, who had been sidelined since late March with a sprained right knee. Not much was tangible about Perez's contributions, given his 0-for-8 performance in eight games. But he provided depth behind Gregor Blanco, the top outfield reserve who has replaced Michael Morse in left field almost daily.

With Perez gone and the bench thinned, Bochy acknowledged that Morse, who has been replaced by Blanco as early as the fifth inning, might stay in games longer.

Bochy said that if the Giants need an extra outfielder beyond Blanco, they could call upon some of their infielders. Brandon Hicks played some outfield in Spring Training and Ehire Adrianza is considered capable of diversifying himself. Joaquin Arias also has practiced in left field occasionally.

"When you have guys on the bench, you like them to be versatile," Bochy said.

Brandon Belt started 34 games in left field in 2011-12, but Bochy said he would remain at first base.

Bochy said Affeldt would be used in a variety of non-closing roles until he finds a niche. Eventually, Bochy would prefer to revert to a 12-man pitching staff if or when the starters begin working deeper into games.