BY ANDREW BAGGARLY

Buster Posey is breaking in his first baseman's glove.

The Giants mega-talented catcher entered today's game at first base in the top of the sixth inning. He recorded one putout, held a runner on the bag and otherwise looked pretty normal over there.

If you have the impulse to freak out, remember a few things:

"The Giants are way short on bodies in the infield because of injuries. And they had to fill out split squads today.

"Posey isnt taking grounders or logging innings at any other infield position. He won't have six gloves in his locker.

"He's still a catcher. No doubt about it.

When Bruce Bochy said he planned for Posey to get some light work at first base this spring, it wasn't because anyone in the organization doubts his skills behind the plate. They'd like first base to be an option for him to aid with double-switches in the future " something that could lead to at-bats alongside Bengie Molina if the Giants decide he's ready at some point this season.

More importantly, the Giants saw how Posey got tired last year and they're trying to pace him a little better. They'd like to give Posey occasional breathers from the rigors of catching while still being able to keep his talented bat in the lineup.

So if anything, they feel they're protecting Posey, and adding to his value, by giving him a little time at first base.