SAN FRANCISCO — Randy Johnson believes he will pitch again this season for San Francisco, albeit as a reliever.

The 45-year-old Big Unit is on the 60-day disabled list and has been sidelined since July 6 with a strained left shoulder. He was examined Sunday morning by team orthopedist Dr. Ken Akizuki and the club hopes Johnson will be able to throw off the mound by later in the week.

Johnson has spent most of his time rehabilitating in Arizona, where the 303-game winner has thrown from up to 90 feet. He also returned to San Francisco on Sunday because it was his bobblehead day at AT&T Park.

Johnson is 8-6 this season.