NEW YORK -- Given that the Giants sent Eugenio Velez to Triple-A Fresno in May to play regularly, his return to the Major Leagues seemed a trifle odd, since he's unlikely to receive frequent playing time.

But manager Bruce Bochy emphasized that for the Giants to contend legitimately in the National League West, they need their 25 best players in the Majors. That contingent, Bochy believes, includes Velez, who was recalled from Fresno on Tuesday.

Bochy noted that Velez's speed, switch-hitting skill and ability to play both second base and the outfield should prove valuable.

"He gives us an added weapon off the bench that we feel we can use right now," Bochy said.

Velez, who hit .207 in 41 games during his first stint with the Giants, improved to .310 in 42 games at Fresno by simplifying his approach.

"The hitting coach [Jim Bowie] told me, 'If you keep swinging the bat, everything's going to be fine,'" Velez said. "'When you go to the plate, don't think. If you see something white, just swing it.'"

Velez also needed to be more selective when attempting to steal bases, particularly against left-handed pitchers, since pickoffs prompted his demotion. He admitted that although he needs to "work a little more" in this area, he still plans on running aggressively.

"That's my job," said Velez, who stole 13 bases in 22 tries at Fresno.

However, Bochy vowed to curb Velez's tendencies. "We'll take more control of it," Bochy said. "He was guessing too much."

Velez appeared to have regained his confidence, which he needed to boost along with his game.

"I tried to play hard and play smart because I wanted to be back here," Velez said.