Squirrels' Dominguez perfect at plate

Chris Dominguez took part in Major League Spring Training this year, getting to work with big league veterans and see how they go about their daily business. So far this season, he's reaping the benefits of that experience.

The Giants' No. 9 prospect went 4-for-4 with a homer, a double, two RBIs and two runs scored Monday as Double-A Richmond defeated Bowie, 5-4.

Dominguez, who batted .266 with 18 homers between Class A Advanced and Double-A last year, is hitting .556 through five games this season.

"I think that it has a lot to do with going to big league camp," he said. "I got started a bit earlier than normal. Watching those guys work and being able to work with them really helped me out this year."

Dominguez started his day with a single in the first inning that plated Tommy Joseph, then led off the fourth with a solo home run. He followed with a one-out double in the sixth, leaving him a triple shy of the cycle with one more plate appearance guaranteed.

He did get a hit in his fourth and final at-bat, but it wasn't a three-bagger. Instead, he concluded his day with a single to lead off the eighth.

"Our manager [Dave Machemer] had said something about that. He said, 'Hit a triple,' but it's hard to go up looking for a triple," Dominguez said. "The ballpark is not relatively big and I'm not the fastest guy in the world, but it was definitely going through my head."

A third-round selection in 2009, Dominguez wasn't just working on his hitting Monday. Though he has played third base throughout his Minor League career, he made his third start of the year in left field as the organization looks to increase his versatility.

"I'm sure I'll play some third and first as well, but mostly left field is where I'm going to be," Dominguez said.

Taking part in his third full Minor League season, Dominguez said his goals are simple: He aims to play well and to help the team win.

"Like anybody I want to win," he said. "I want to do everything I can in my power to help the team win -- that's definitely one of my first goals. Individually, I want to stay consistent and ... play well every day and play hard for the team every day."