Miguel Angel Jimenez shot identical nines of 33 Friday for a 5-under 66 that stands as the best round of the tournament so far. (How/Getty Images)

Like Friday. One minute he's starting the day 4 over par, the next he's on his way to the tournament's low round of 66 and a tie for fifth going into the weekend.

And did we mention his birdie-birdie start?

"Well, it gives you a boost,'' said Jimemez, widely known for the ponytail sticking out of the back of his cap and his penchant for fine cigars. "I started out very nice with my first two holes on the 10th and the 11th. That's what you need to do.''

He shot identical nines of 33 and birdied his final hole to get to 1 under for the tournament.

"As you say, something to put yourself in contention for the weekend,'' he said. "I've been hitting the ball very well and quite well now, and it gives yourself some confidence and that's the most important thing.''

Jimenez, who came to Torrey Pines ranked 21st in the world and hopeful of qualifying for the European Ryder Cup team, has 10 top-10 finishes in majors, including a tie for second at the 2000 U.S. Open. He tied for 16th last year and finished tied for eighth at this year's Masters.

And, yes, he wants to win a major.

"Well, it's very important,'' he said. "This is my 26th year on the Tour, and I'm 44. I would love to have one for my career. ''

Jimemez is known as "the Mechanic" for his love of fast cars. If he were to bag a major, would he add another Ferrari to his garage?

"No, it's not about quantity, so you have to enjoy what you have,'' he said laughing. "That's the most important thing."