SAN FRANCISCO -- This year's Winter Meetings in Dallas move from a weekend to a weekday schedule, beginning on Monday, Dec. 5, and ending on Thursday, Dec. 8. While there were very few fireworks at last year's event, there could be more wheeling and dealing this year due to the relatively thin group of free agents.

Look for Giants GM Brian Sabean to concentrate on starting pitching, which he felt was an area of great miscalculation in 2005. Adding a No. 2 starter -- one with experience, a winning record and the ability to eat innings -- is preferable. A slugging left-handed first baseman is necessary to trigger the offense.

And be sure to check back at MLB.com and sfgiants.com regularly to find out the latest about the Giants as we bring you the news as it happens from Dallas.

2005 finish: 75-87, third place, National League West

Deals so far: Signed RHP Tim Worrell to a two-year deal; re-signed LHP Jeff Fassero to one-year contract; exercised club options for RHP Jason Schmidt and OF Randy Winn; OF Moises Alou, 2B Ray Durham and RHP LaTroy Hawkins picked up their options for 2006; claimed RHP Jeff Miller off waivers from Pittsburgh.

Players eligible for arbitration: None

Free agents: 1B J.T. Snow, RHP Brett Tomko

Needs: A veteran starter with a good track record, although RHP Matt Cain or LHP Noah Lowry could fill that role in 2006, and the club may keep Tomko, a proven big leaguer. With loss of lefty reliever Scott Eyre, there's a huge setup job open. Sabean is also eyeing a power-hitting, lefty first baseman or 1B/OF swingman. A decent infield backup, a la Deivi Cruz, is also a need.

Dealing strengths: The Giants are loaded with young pitching talent and other prime prospects in the Minors, where the club's farm system finished second in winning percentage last year. Possible tradees are RHP Merkin Valdez, LHP Brian Burres and RHP Chris Begg.
I wouldn't mind sending Linden and Alfonzo to the Royals for Sweeney to gte the left handed first baseman. The Royals would be saving $4 mil if the Giants pay all Sweeney's salary. Linden has been a bust at the MLB level. Alfonzo could return to second base for the Royals. I also don't like the idea of trading Brian Burres.