Lincecum feels 'better,’ and MRI exam shows no structural damage

For a long reliever who has pitched only once this postseason, Tim Lincecum drew a lot of attention Thursday.

Lincecum’s condition was Topic A as the Giants and Royals held brief workouts in advance of World Series Game 3. He left Wednesday night’s game in Kansas City with tightness in his lower back, but an MRI exam showed no structural damage and he’s expected to be available for Friday’s game, according to the Associated Press.

Asked how he’s feeling (before learning of the MRI results), Lincecum said, “Not too bad. I’ll get some treatment and see where it takes me. … I feel better than yesterday.”

Lincecum acknowledged that his back felt “iffy” on the plane ride from Kansas City to San Francisco. Not long after he spoke to reporters, and long after his teammates were done, Lincecum wandered into shallow left field to play catch. He didn’t throw for long, but he threw fairly hard and showed no visible signs of discomfort.

Lincecum pitched well before his injury Wednesday night, retiring all five Royals batters he faced. This raised the possibility he might become an option in tighter situations the rest of this World Series — especially with another right-hander, Hunter Strickland, struggling. Strickland has allowed five home runs this postseason.

http://www.sfgate.com/giants/article/Lincecum-feels-better-and-MRI-exam-shows-no-5844253.php