Right-handed pitcher Tim “The Freak” Lincecum threw his first bullpen session Sunday as part of the Angels at the team’s extended spring-training facility in Arizona.
Lincecum will next throw a simulated game at the complex in Arizona. He then will work his way up to an extended spring game and then head to triple-A Salt Lake, where he’ll make at least two starts.
Lincecum officially signed a contract with the Angels that will pay him $2.5 million to pitch this season, a great position for both the pitcher and pitching-depleted team. Lincecum had his right hip surgically repaired at the end of last season and the time in Salt Lake will be part of the rehab process. Tim can earn an additional $1.67 million in performances bonuses this year based on games started and number of days on the active roster.
“The Freak” shouldn’t be expected to arrive in Salt Lake until mid June.