"Randy Johnson left open the possibility of returning for a 22nd Major League season by filing for free agency Monday.

This marks the second consecutive offseason in which Johnson, 46, has opted for free agency. Last December, he left the Arizona Diamondbacks to sign a one-year, $8 million contract with the Giants. Johnson's season in San Francisco was a memorable one, featuring his 300th career victory June 4 in the opener of a doubleheader at Washington.

But Johnson injured his left (throwing) shoulder on July 5 against Houston in what proved to be his 17th and final start of the season. He recovered in time to make five relief appearances in September, but the 303-game winner clearly felt uncomfortable with the role. He finished 8-6 with a 4.88 ERA and 86 strikeouts in 96 innings.

Toward the end of last season, Johnson remained noncommittal about returning in 2010, though he plainly stated that he would want to resume starting if he were to play.

Johnson became the last of seven eligible Giants to file for free agency. As for a handful of the others, general manager Brian Sabean indicated that San Francisco's free agents whom the club might be interested in keeping -- catcher Bengie Molina, right-hander Brad Penny and infielder Juan Uribe -- are virtually certain to hit the market Friday, when open bidding on free agents begins. The Giants still can sign them after that date.

Until 9 p.m. PT Thursday, the Giants retain the right to negotiate exclusively with their free agents. This group includes infielder Rich Aurilia, right-hander Bob Howry and outfielder Randy Winn, none of whom is likely to stay with San Francisco."