He might be worth the risk, but not Barry.

He's not the same pitcher of a few years ago. Considering there are ZERO prospects in the farm system, the decision comes down to Lincecum or another free agent. Team has to decide on Hunter Pence as well, another player who will command a lot. And they need power in left field (or first base, should Belt move to left).

Vogelsong is the other question. Only two starters are under contract for '14 -- so they'd need to sign Lincecum (or equivalent), Vogelsong (or equivalent). And establish a fifth starter, possibly Yusmeiro Petit.

Totaled, that's a lot of money.

I never follow the National League until the playoffs...so I can't comment really as to whether Tim might still have a few good years, but it does seem,a s you note, the Giants have few options.

The big decision -- how much is it worth? This year: 10-14 (with the no-hitter) and a 4.44 ERA -- an improvement from 2012. It's pointed out in the link that run support and defense in his starts have been terrible, as has relief pitching with his runners inherited.

It's times like these I'm glad I'm not a GM.

http://www.sfgate.com/giants/shea/article/S-F-swan-song-for-Lincecum-4844244.php#page-2

The season is so long that it takes so much out of them...if he had one more year before they had to decide, I think his performance in 2014 would be a better indication of where he's at...of course, they have to decide now.