Pat Burrell soon could be back in an SF Giants uniform as an instructor

Pat Burrell, one of the heroes from the Giants’ 2010 championship run, might join a luminous list of former players who visit spring training for a week or two of special coaching.

Manager Bruce Bochy just told me that he and general manager Brian Sabean talked to Burrell this winter about a post-retirement role in the organization, and that could include a stint here in Scottsdale doing the kind of work that Will Clark (currently here), Robb Nen and Shawon Dunston do.

“Brian and I will get together and see what makes sense for both sides,” Bochy said. “We think a lot of Pat.”

The timing of any potential visit could depend on Burrell’s recovery from a shoulder operation, which came as a surprise to Bochy. The Santa Cruz-area native is retiring at 35 because of a chronic foot problem, and Bochy said Burrell did not complain about any shoulder pain during his final season last year.

How could Burrell help here?

“He’s a guy who can talk to players about the right way to play,” Bochy said. “I think his strength would be his approach to the plate on the hitting side.”

Indeed, Burrell had one of the majors’ best eyes at the plate and worked counts better than any Giant in 2010. He retired with a career on-base percentage of .361.

Quiet day so far at camp. Within the hour Brian Wilson is scheduled to throw a bullpen session. I’ll let you know how he looked.


(sfgate.com)