Giants perpare for possible playoff, move up Tim Lincecum

Having Monday off gave the Giants a lot more flexibility in dealing with their rotation this week, and they announced Tuesday that they’re taking advantage of it by moving Tim Lincecum’s start from Thursday to Wednesday. Lincecum was switched with Madison Bumgarner in case the Giants face a must-win 163rd game next Monday. Lincecum could then pitch that one on regular rest. San Francisco currently holds a one-game lead over San Diego in the NL West, and both teams could make the postseason if the Braves falter this week. In one of his finest performances this season, Lincecum limited the Rockies to one run and two hits over eight innings at Coors Field to win Friday. He’s allowed a total of eight runs in his last five starts, lowering his ERA from 3.80 to 3.51. The Giants play three games with the Diamondbacks this week before finishing their schedule with a home series against the Padres. Barry Zito, Matt Cain and Jonathan Sanchez are scheduled to pitch in the final series.