Posey at first with Sanchez behind the plate

SAN FRANCISCO -- Brandon Belt was on the bench to start Saturday's matinee against the Rockies, as Buster Posey made his first start of the year at first base.

But the move has just as much to do with manager Bruce Bochy's confidence in backup catcher Hector Sanchez, who received his third start of the year and second straight behind the plate.

"He's really come a long ways from last year," Bochy said. "The thing about Hector is he's taking more pride in what he's doing behind the plate. He's studying hitters more and he's doing a better job of framing. This makes it easier to give Buster a break."

Posey played in 21 games (16 starts) at first base in 2013, and the trend will continue again this year, especially with Sanchez's development. The 24-year-old Venezuelan has never been known for his bat as a big leaguer, but with the way Bochy talks about him, it's clear he's a valuable part of this team's plans for 2014.