Tim Lincecum - Pitch Repertoire

Pitch Repertoire

Lincecum throws a four-seam fastball at 89–93 mph, but mostly uses a two-seam fastball grip which he throws around 88–91 mph for more sinking movement to get more ground balls. This pitch has little lateral movement, due to his overhand delivery and the speed at which the pitch is thrown. He has a big breaking curveball that is thrown at a range of 75–80 mph and breaks away from a right-handed hitter. Lincecum uses a changeup that he grips similar to a splitter with sinking two-seam action. His changeup appears similar to his fastball for the first 30 feet (9.1 m), but then dives down sharply tailing away from a left-handed batter (82–85 mph). The majority of his strikeouts are recorded with this pitch. Lincecum also has a hard slider that breaks down and away from a right-handed hitter at a speed similar to his changeup (82–85 mph). With his fastball and strong secondary pitches, he has established himself as one of the elite pitchers in the game.

Lincecum is known for his long stride, unorthodox mechanics, and ability to generate high velocity despite his slight build: originally listed as 5 ft 11 in (1.80 m) and 165 pounds. In part to add strength and durability, Lincecum put on about 15 pounds prior to the season.