Tim Lincecum was chased after giving up six runs (four earned) over just 2 2/3 innings on Saturday against the Nationals and now Amy Gutierrez of CSN Bay Area reports that the Giants will move him to the bullpen indefinitely.
Lincecum pitched a no-hitter earlier this season, but he owns a 4.64 ERA on the year and has really struggled of late with a 9.49 ERA with a 22/15 K/BB ratio in 24 2/3 innings over his last six starts. As a result, the Giants will turn to Yusmiero Petit to start Thursday against the Diamondbacks. With a 3.59 ERA and 87/17 K/BB ratio in 80 1/3 innings in six starts and 27 relief appearances this year, he’s deserving of the assignment.
Giants manager Bruce Bochy hasn’t announced his plans beyond Thursday, but Lincecum’s velocity and and command have been on the decline for a while now and a move to the bullpen might be the best thing for him and a team with postseason aspirations.