Giants prepare to get into swing of spring BP

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. -- Giants hitters took their hacks freely during batting practice Wednesday, but that will change as "live" BP begins Thursday.

That's when hitters confront Giants pitchers. At this stage, with hitters striving to regain their timing, a fly ball to the outfield might represent their best contact.

All pitchers rested their arms Wednesday to prepare for consecutive days of live BP leading up to the Feb. 26 Cactus League opener against the Oakland A's at Scottsdale Stadium. The Giants typically conduct an intrasquad game on the day before their first contest, though regulars and established pitchers are excused from participating.

An oddity in this year's spring slate is the scheduled off-day on Feb. 27, one day after the Giants begin Cactus League action.