Brandon Belt will play winter ball in the Dominican Republic.
The rookie first baseman wasn't thrilled with the idea at first, but was convinced after having a conversation with Giants manager Bruce Bochy. "After talking with him, I really think it's going to make me a better player," said Belt. "If it's the best thing for me, then it's important that I go. There's a lot I can work on, and it'd probably be for just half a season." Belt missed a month this season with a broken wrist and has struggled with sporadic playing time on the major league level. The Giants still owe Aubrey Huff $10 million next season, so the 23-year-old may have to play the outfield to get the chance to be a regular in 2012.