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**Kitty** · 04-27-2008, 11:36 PM

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Zito, winless in his first six starts for the first time in his career, gave up eight runs and seven hits while walking three in only three innings. The left-hander, who signed a $126 million, seven-year deal prior to last season, was booed frequently by the crowd at AT&T Park during his shortest outing of the year.

Afterward, the Giants acknowledged they are considering sending Zito to the bullpen to work his way out of the slump. The three-time All-Star and 2002 AL Cy Young winner is only the third pitcher since 1956 to go 0-6 in April, joining Dave Stewart (Texas, 1984) and Mike Maroth (Detroit, 2003).

"It's an option, for sure," San Francisco manager Bruce Bochy said. "We have to do something different, there's no getting around that. We can't keep doing what we are doing. We have to get this guy right."

After finishing 11-13 in his first season with San Francisco and going winless in his first six starts this season, Zito realizes something has to give. He wants to remain in the Giants rotation but is open to whatever decision the Giants make.

"I definitely want the ball. I'm not backing down from that," Zito said. "But they know what's best for the ballclub. It feels (bad) going out here and losing for these guys."

http://www.contracostatimes.com/athletics/ci_9076411