Giants optimistic Pablo Sandoval will be ready for opening day

Giants third baseman Pablo Sandoval is dealing an elbow injury. (Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)

San Francisco Giants third baseman Pablo Sandoval is dealing with elbow discomfort and the team is optimistic that he will be available for the season opener, reports the San Jose Mercury News.

Sandoval did take batting practice on Saturday to see how his elbow responded. The Giants open defense of their World Championship Monday against the Los Angeles Dodgers.

“Yeah, for sure,” Sandoval said, when asked if he anticipated playing on Monday. “I’m feeling better. If I’m allowed to, I’m going to be there.”

Giants manager Bruce Bochy felt confident as well about Sandoval's availability to play

“It’s going to go down to the wire,” Bochy said. “It won’t be an easy call, but we’re pretty optimistic that he’s going to make it.”

From the Mercury News:

Bochy said the Giants could potentially use Sandoval off the bench for the first two or three games to give him additional rest. The Giants are off Sunday and have another off day on Thursday after three games with the Dodgers.