SCOTTSDALE, Ariz.  — Russ Ortiz expects nothing less than to be in San Francisco’s rotation as the fifth starter this season.

That’s why he returned to the comfort of his former club for 2007, and the Giants brought him back because they believe he can fill that void. Still, San Francisco isn’t ready to name Ortiz a starter just yet — and manager Bruce Bochy has said it still might be well into March before the Giants announce a decision.

The team is taking a serious look at rookie left-hander Jonathan Sanchez, who went 3-1 in four starts with a 4.95 ERA during his brief stint in the big leagues last year. He spent his time pitching in winter ball — as did Ortiz — working on developing a slider he is eager to try out this spring.

“I don’t feel like I’m competing with anybody,” Ortiz said Thursday before throwing a bullpen session at Scottsdale Stadium. “I’m coming in and doing my thing.”

In January, Ortiz agreed to a $380,000, one-year contract five seasons after helping the Giants reach the 2002 World Series.

He struggled last season, going winless in 26 outings, including 11 starts, for the Arizona Diamondbacks and Baltimore Orioles. Baltimore dropped him out of its rotation in July.

Ortiz is ready for a fresh start.

“I’m confident. But I’ve played long enough to know I don’t have any control over situations. I believe I can offer a lot.”