Article:Linceucm Shines in Series Finale

Although the Giants still have yet to get their offense going after the first series of the season, their pitching is looking as good as advertised. Matt Cain got a tough luck no decision going 5 2/3 innings on Tuesday night, but threw very well. Tim Lincecum didn't start the game Wednesday night as the Giants were expecting the game to be called in the middle innings, but he got the win in relief. He turned in a very gutsy performance and still dealt with a rain delay right in the middle of his outing. Lincecum also went 1-1 with the bat and scored what turned out being the winning run on a Randy Winn sac fly in the 6th. It wasn't just Lincecum who was impressed on the mound Wednesday night either. Merkin Valdez got the emergency start and kicked off the game in fashion by striking out the side with impressive 95 mph heaters and a wicked split. He ended up going 2 scoreless, hitless innings to start and Jack Taschner came in and threw well in his relief. It was also good to see Brian Wilson notch his first save of the year in harsh conditions and he did it with a very nice defensive play.

While the young Giants pitching lived up to their standards vs. the Dodgers, the offense lived down to theirs. As expected, the bats looked tired for the first 3 in LA, but at least it appears Bochy is finally starting to make some changes. I was impressed with Brian Bocock, although his bat isn't quite major league ready, his glove sure is. Eugenio Velez is also picking up right where he left off this spring. Velez got the start at second base and was on 2 times with a stolen base at the leadoff spot. Bochy needs to find a way to get Velez in the lineup everyday. Whether it's at 2nd base, left field, or even 3rd base, the Giants need his bat and legs at the top of the order.

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