Lincecum Throws the Second Best Gem of the Playoffs

First Cliff Lee, then Doctober and now Tim Lincecum. The skinny, long-haired kid pitcher for the Giants threw an amazing game against the Braves. Lincecum only gave up two hits, one of which led off the game. He walked only one and struck out fourteen batters. How good is that?

Derek Lowe did his best to keep pace. He pitched a gritty 5+ innings and only gave up one run, the only run of the game on a Cody Ross single that scored Posey. This single by Ross is a bit of pie in the sky and one of those stories that only happen in the post season. Cody Ross wasn't supposed to play his post season. Jose Guillen was supposed to be the series right fielder. But he has a bad neck and was scratched at the last minute and pulled off the series roster. Ross, who would have been little more than a late defensive replacement otherwise gets his chance, starts the game and drove in the only run of the game. Don't you just love baseball?

But the story of the game was Lincecum. Forget all about that tough patch he had earlier in the season. He's back to fight for his claim as the best pitcher in the National League. His two Cy Young Awards back up his claim. He was magnificent and the Giants won a game just like they won so many others in September. They got great pitching and scratched out the only run they needed.