Kuzul

Even though Tim Lincecum has been nothing short of terrible for the San Francisco Giants, the team is poised for a second-half run.

Granted, the Giants are 4-12 when the two-time Cy Young Award winner pitches, making their one-and-a-half-game lead over the Los Angeles Dodgers that much more impressive.

After struggling mightily over the first two and a half months, Lincecum has pitched better of late, including an impressive seven-inning start against the Dodgers where he gave up four hits and no runs—not bad considering the Dodgers were without Matt Kemp.

Still, Lincecum has a ways to go before he is “back,” but a second-half transformation looks promising.

Here are seven predictions for Lincecum as the Giants try to make another run at a World Series title. 

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Pablo Sandoval may be back at third base for the San Francisco Giants, but after his dismal performance on Sunday, there is cause for concern.

Yes, the Panda has only been back two games, but with his latest string off-the-field issues, how good will Sandoval be?

No question when Sandoval is healthy, he is a dynamic threat at the plate with his ability to hit for power and average.

Before his injury he was the Giants‘ best offensive weapon hitting .316 with five HR and 15 RBI. Yet after six weeks off and increasing coverage about his weight issues, will Sandoval re-emerge and help the Giants push for the playoff?

Remember the Giants won a World Series without major contributions from the Panda.  

So be excited that Sandoval is back, but here are 10 reasons why he isn’t as important to the Giants’ success as many would like to believe.

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