Los Angeles Angels
Tim Linceum, pitching in his first game in nearly a year, turned back the time machine in his debut with the Angels. Now the two-time Cy Young Award winner will look to build on his victory against the A’s when he faces the Boston Red Sox this week.
“I didn’t necessarily see this game going as well as it did,” said Lincecum, who is coming back from hip surgery. “But it panned out and gave me a little more confidence knowing I can push through to the next game.
“I know it’s kind of hard to accept for a pitcher who has been through a lot and done a lot, but like I said, I’m trying to move on and try to become a different player.”
The Angels rotation could use a boost after being ravaged by injuries. Lincecum did just that.
“Tim just grinds out and competes and uses all his pitches,” manager Mike Scioscia said. “He has a real good feel out there for what he needs to do.”
Left fielder Daniel Nava is hoping to supply some production, and the Angels sure could use it — for the second consecutive year, they have a corner-outfield spot that has produced little. Nava, who missed a month because of a groin injury, hit .273 for the Red Sox in his first four major league seasons but has hit .202 the last two years.
Right- hander Nick Tropeano (shoulder) is making progress in his rehabilitation. He could rejoin the rotation at month’s end when the Angels play the Astros in a four-game series.