Scutaro sits out Giants' first fielding drill

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. -- The Giants followed their strategy of restricting Marco Scutaro's activity Wednesday, as the second baseman did not participate in the opening full-squad workout.

Scutaro, 38, remains bothered by back discomfort that has lingered since last season. Manager Bruce Bochy has said that he'll be cautious in using Scutaro during the opening weeks of Spring Training.

In Scutaro's absence, Nick Noonan and Tony Abreu shared second base to begin the first fielding drill, though Bochy has named Joaquin Arias as the position's likely fill-in.

With Scutaro shelved, the best second baseman on the premises probably was guest instructor Jeff Kent, the 2000 National League Most Valuable Player with the Giants. Other Giants alumni expected to serve as guest instructors include Will Clark, Rich Aurilia and Randy Winn.