"Barry Zito was left out of the playoff roster for the San Francisco Giants, meaning he won't join the team for the first round of the playoffs.

The Giants sent their official roster to the league this morning ahead of tonight's Game 1 of the Division Series. Recent acquisition Jose Guillen was also left off the final roster.

On Wednesday, Giants manager Bruce Bochy confirmed that Aaron Rowand, his one-time starting center fielder, would be on the club for the playoffs -- and that Zito wouldn't start a game in the series.

"The club we pick are the guys we think we'll utilize the most," Bochy said.

Zito had little cause to complain after a miserable start Saturday against the Padres in which he issued two bases-loaded walks in the first inning. Zito expressed disappointment in himself "for not cracking the rotation."

"I stand behind Boch," Zito said. "He's the skipper so I stand behind his decision.

"The last game "... the money was on the table, and I didn't attack the zone the way I should have. Luckily (Jonathan Sanchez) picked me up the next day, and we won the NL West."

Zito said he could help the team in relief, though, contending that too much is made of his lengthy routine to get loose. He said he'd remain ready if called upon for the League Championship Series, should the Giants advance."