Lincecum Reaches 200 Strikeouts

Tim Lincecum in his last start reached 200 strikeouts for the first time in his career. He had 196 between the majors and minors last season and 199 in college once. Accomplishments (from Chron, Merc, sfgiants.com accounts):

• He became the first Giant since Jason Schmidt accumulated 251 K's in 2004 to reach that level.
• The 24-year-old is the ninth Giants pitcher to reach the 200-strikeout level since the franchise moved to San Francisco in 1958.
• Tim Lincecum's the seventh different San Francisco Giant to strike out 200 hitters. His predecessors are Jason Schmidt (2003, 2004), Juan Marichal (1963-66 and '68-69), Gaylord Perry (1966-67 and '69-70), Sam Jones (1959), Ray Sadecki (1968) and John Montefusco (1975).
• Lincecum maintained terrific stuff to the end, popping the glove at 96 mph while striking out the side in the seventh inning. Lincecum offered more reassurance that he is built for a long race: "My body feels the same. It feels strong."
• Lincecum also improved to 14-3, matching the second-best record among San Francisco pitchers through 17 decisions. He matched Juan Marichal (1968) and Scott Garrelts (1989) and trails only Gaylord Perry (15-2 in 1966).
• The bullpen has squandered leads in six of Lincecum's starts; the rubbery right-hander was in line for the victory in five of them. Thus, he could be 19-3 right now with perfect bullpen support.
• He leads the league in strikeouts (200) and ERA (2.48).

In addition, the Giants shut out the 'Dres behind Lincecum and Wilson's pitching. The Giants' 10 shutouts this season tied them with the Dodgers and Mets for the National League lead entering Saturday. The last San Francisco team to record more blankings was the 2002 club, which had 13.

Go Tim!