With General Manager Brian Sabean stating that second year player Emmanuel Burris ‘won the job outright’, the Giants optioned Kevin Frandsen to AAA Fresno, ending the heated competition for second base.  A favorite with both fans and teammates, Frandsen, who missed most of 2008 with an achilles injury, will probably serve in a multipurpose role for the Grizzlies, moving around the infield to fill needs. 

It had been widely expected that the loser of the competition would remain on the Giants in the capacity of a backup.  The move all but guarantees that veterans Rich Aurilia and Juan Uribe will both remain on the club going into the season.   However, keeping in mind the situation the Giants had in 2008 when Eugenio Velez fizzled coming out of camp, it’s safe to think Frandsen will be back sometime this season.  However, should Burriss excel, perhaps look for the Giants to eventually try to trade Frandsen.  It won’t be too hard to find a taker for his hard nosed style of play.  

In other moves, the Giants reassigned slugging phenom Jesus Guzman to minor league camp, citing his need to find a defensive position.   I can’t imagine he won’t be back with the big league club at some time.