Niekro, the Giants' starting first baseman on opening day, was optioned to Triple-A Fresno on Sunday before San Francisco's game against Philadelphia. Niekro has been on the disabled list three times over the past two years, and has struggled since his most recent trip to the DL with a strained groin.
(Updated 7/16/2006)

Analysis: Niekro is batting .249 with four homers and 29 RBIs, but is mired in an 8-for-45 slump (.178). He also hasn't homered since May 30.