Brian Sabean: Giants focusing on pitching over hitting

NASHVILLE - The Giants have been linked to several outfielders at this week’s winter meetings, but Brian Sabean said the focus for now is finding another starting pitcher.

“We wouldn’t pass if something comes up with a position player, but we think we’re a stronger team with another solid pitching piece,” said Sabean, the Giants’ executive vice president of baseball operations.

Jeff Samardzija, whose five-year, $90 million contract became official Wednesday when the Giants announced he passed his physical, will join Madison Bumgarner atop the rotation, and Sabean said the push is for a third “bona fide starter -- because it’s an arms race” and a solid threesome is advantageous entering the postseason.

The Giants’ starters ranked ninth in the league in innings, and more durable starters would ease the strain of the bullpen, which was overworked last season.

Pitchers Johnny Cueto and Mike Leake (who’s being heavily wooed by the Nationals) remain on the free-agent market, and Sabean said the Giants have options on the trade front as well.