Kuiper explains how Lincecum could return to Giants in 2017

Share

Programming note: Giants-Padres coverage starts tonight at 6:30pm with Giants Pregame Live on CSN Bay Area.

Tim Lincecum is reportedly finalizing a deal to join the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim.

On Tuesday morning, Giants broadcaster Duane Kuiper reacted to the news.

"If he wanted to start and there really wasn't a spot for him to start with the Giants, maybe there might be a chance for him to start with the Giants in two months, or you know, as this whole season unfolds," Kuiper told KNBR 680. "But if you couldn't guarantee him that he's gonna be a starter, and that's what he wants to do, then go."

The Giants all along were interested in Lincecum as a reliever.

But the two-time Cy Young winner made it clear from the beginning he still envisions himself as a starter.

"This is probably the second best scenario for him (Lincecum), Kuiper added. "He's out of the National League, he's in a league where a lot of guys haven't seen him, he's on the West Coast, and he can start. It's a one year deal. If he is lights out, and he still wants to come back with the Giants, and the Giants want him, then they can do that next year."

San Francisco Giants

Find the latest San Francisco Giants news, highlights, analysis and more with NBC Sports Bay Area and California.

Giants notes: Bulked-up Hicks ready for second shot in rotation

Luciano hopeful Giants position change will spark MLB breakout

Madison Bumgarner, Johnny Cueto, Jeff Samardzija and Matt Cain are all under contract with San Francisco in 2017.

Jake Peavy, who is making $15 million this year, will be a free agent.

That leaves a spot open in the rotation, which could ultimately go to a prospect climbing the ranks in the minor leagues.

For Lincecum, it's all about the present and proving to executives that he still has some left in the tank.

"I think it's a great situation for him," Kuiper said. "I hope he's 10-0 in all of his starts, because that's how much I think of him, and I know that's how much you think of him, and how much our city thinks of him.

"So, good for him, and good luck to him."

Contact Us