After all, that's what the Dodgers did last year acquiring Ramirez at midseason and riding his momentum to a division title.

"We will be in a good position at the All-Star break to do something," Sabean said while attending the Giants' annual FanFest on Saturday. "We'll be able to bring a player in here. We'll be able to take a contract. We have (financial) flexibility."

Sabean said his staff already has begun assembling what he termed a "hit list" of teams that could be distressed financially and forced to shed payroll at midseason.

"There are some teams that will start the season behind the 8-ball because of the economy," Sabean said. "They'll be compelled more so to get rid of the money than what they'd get in return."

In the meantime, the Giants continue to keep tabs with Ramirez's agent, Scott Boras, in case talks with the Dodgers fall apart. Sabean said he has talked parameters as recently as this week, but no offers have been made.

Giants officials say they will not approach the Dodgers' earlier offer of two years and $45 million to Ramirez, and all expectations are that the dreadlocked slugger will return to Los Angeles.

Report: Crede offered

According to CBS 5, the Giants have made a one-year offer for an undisclosed amount to third baseman Joe Crede, and former teammate Aaron Rowand is lobbying for him to accept. If the Giants add Crede, who has played all nine of his previous seasons with the Chicago White Sox, then Pablo Sandoval would be expected to play first base.

No minor decision

Veteran infielder Rich Aurilia has been offered a minor league contract, and he was taking the weekend to mull it over, Sabean said. Aurilia would make roughly $1 million if he makes the team, plus incentives. If the two sides cannot reach a deal, the Giants will look at Kevin Millar and other right-handed bench options on the free-agent market.

WBC news

Sandoval and catcher Bengie Molina said they are likely to skip the World Baseball Classic. Left-hander Jonathan Sanchez, who is on Puerto Rico's roster, is expected to be the only WBC participant from the Giants' 40-man roster.

Short hop

Giants special assistant Will Clark sure didn't stump for Ramirez during a question-and-answer session with fans. "Manny's a great hitter and all, but that 'Manny being Manny,' stuff? Throw that out the window," Clark said to a cheering crowd. "We do not need a one-dimensional player."

Andrew Baggarly