A club source said the Giants are so intent on keeping outfielder Jason Ellison and first baseman Lance Niekro, both of whom are out of options, that they are resigned to starting the season with just an 11-man pitching staff. Even with the extra position spot, there doesn't appear to be room for Mark Sweeney at the end of the bench. Sweeney acknowledged disappointment at being left out of Monday's meeting. He can see the writing on the wall, but he isn't giving up on being a Giant when the club opens its season a week from today. "The only time you give up on a team is when you're not in uniform," Sweeney said. "Something can happen any given day that can put you in a good light." According to an industry source, the Giants placed Sweeney on revocable waivers and no team claimed him within the 48-hour window - which only indicates that other clubs didn't want him at his $950,000 salary. The Giants wouldn't attempt to outright Sweeney to Triple-A Fresno because he has the right to refuse the assignment. "I'm sure there will be interest if Mark is let go," agent Barry Axelrod said.