"Though the disabled list is an option for Freddy Sanchez, it might not be the final destination for Randy Johnson.

The Giants aren't ruling out a Johnson comeback, and the plan is for the 45-year-old lefty to begin tossing on flat ground during the upcoming homestand, perhaps in Arizona. With 38 games remaining in the season and perhaps more in the postseason, Johnson still could be a factor after slightly tearing his rotator cuff on a July 5 swing.

"It's possible," manager Bruce Bochy said of a Johnson return.

Sanchez missed his sixth straight game (10th of 23 since his trade) with a strained left shoulder and is doubtful for today. A DL stint would be retroactive to Tuesday. The second baseman last played last Monday at Citi Field.

Bochy said the DL is "coming into play as each day goes by. Again, that depends on progress he makes. He'd like to stay away from that, but it's definitely coming into play.""