San Francisco Giants starting pitcher Tim Lincecum sits three outs away from throwing the first no-hitter of his career, as he has thrown eight no-hit innings against the San Diego Padres.
Lincecum retired the first two Padres in the eighth inning. The starter struck out catcher Rene Rivera to start the inning, his 12th strikeout of the game. Chris Denorfia then hit a groundout to third baseman Pablo Sandoval for the second out of the inning, but Everth Cabrera drew a walk to extend the inning, bringing Alexi Amarista to the plate. Giants right fielder Hunter Pence made a great catch in right field to keep the no-hitter intact.
Lincecum is scheduled to face Chase Headley, Carlos Quentin and Yonder Alonso in the ninth inning. Headley has reached base twice tonight against Lincecum with two walks.
Lincecum has pitched well in Petco Park throughout his career. He entered Saturday with an 2.48 ERA in 80 innings at San Diego, striking out 102 batters while issuing 30 walks. Overall, Lincecum has an 11-6 record against the Padres with a 2.34 ERA in 24 starts.
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