Pat the Bat is now Bat the Bird Dog.

Burrell, who is retiring after 12 big-league seasons because of a chronic foot condition, just told me has formally agreed to scout for the Giants this season. The Northern California native has been working with scouts this spring to see if he would be interested in tackling the job. Apparently he is.

I asked him why scouting rather than a position on the field. After all, Burrell was a very smart hitter throughout his career with the Phillies, Rays and Giants. He had good power and knew how to work a count, a talent he could impart to younger hitters in the system.

Burrell said it was general manager Brian Sabean’s idea.

“They felt that since I’m so close to playing I should step away from it for a while,” he said. “Brian’s been around for a long time. He knows what’s best.”

Burrell said he would revisit the a coaching or instructional position later.

He does not know what his assignment will be in 2012. For now, Burrell is scouting the Giants’ system, watching the exhibitions from behind home plate. Every team has scouts watch their own players in the majors and minors to help general managers decide which players to keep, trade and promote.