Frandsen has the best chance to put together a full season of at-bats. He is 26, and has a string of .300-plus batting averages on his minor-league resume. But he doesn't possess power or speed, and even some within the organization see his ceiling as a utility player.

The outfield regulars will be Roberts, Rowand and Randy Winn — a trio that will block the ways of Rajai Davis, 27, Fred Lewis, 27, and Nate Schierholtz, 24, with the latter most likely to start the season in the minors.

“They all have shown they can play up here,'' Bochy said of his younger trio of outfielders. “I don't think any of them deserve to go back to Fresno. We'll try to get the young guys out there as much as we can. We might have some difficult decisions here later on this spring.''

One thing is certain: The outfield defense will be dramatically upgraded with Rowand taking over in center, and the combination of Roberts and Davis replacing the statuesque Bonds in left. In fact, the Giants have five outfielders who have played center field. That could be helpful, considering they played 90 games last season that were decided by two runs or less.

Yes, if you haven't figured it out by now, the Giants' chance for respectability rests with a talented rotation — and hopefully, a better bullpen.

“No question we're geared more toward pitching and defense,'' Bochy said.

They feel Zito will be more relaxed and less worried about living up to his huge contract, as he was last season, when his ERA ballooned to 4.53.

Slideshow   The Week in Sports Pictures A kayaker flips out, a racehorse eyes the Triple Crown and more. more photos

“The last 19 starts he was on track. We want him to carry that into this year,'' Bochy said. “There was added pressure, living up to all the expectations. That played a part in it. We had discussions. A couple of times. 'Just be yourself, and not be anyone else'.''

Matt Cain should take another step to elite-starter status, and Tim Lincecum will be around on Opening Day. But there is a chance Noah Lowry could be dealt for another bat, possibly Crede.

But no matter who is on his roster, Bochy knows there is much work to be done.

“This will be a spring when we do a lot of teaching,'' he said.