Giants vs. Cardinals: Tim Lincecum to start NLCS Game 4, Barry Zito Game 5 for San Francisco

After losing Game 3, 3-1, and falling into a 2-1 hole in the National League Championship Series, the San Francisco Giants will now turn to Tim Lincecum in Game 4.

Following Game 3, Giants manager Bruce Bochy announced Lincecum would start Game 4, his first start of the postseason. Lincecum struggled much of the regular season, posting a 5.18 ERA in 33 starts, but pitched well in three relief appearances during the postseason. He's pitched 8⅓ innings during the postseason, allowing just one run while striking out nine.

With Lincecum starting Game 4, Bochy said Barry Zito will start Game 5. Zito started one game during the NLDS, allowing two runs over 2⅔ innings against Cincinnati. With Zito getting the start, Bochy decided against bringing back Game 1 starter Madison Bumgarner. Bumgarner struggled in the series opener, allowing six runs over 3⅔ innings. It's possible Bumgarner could start a potential Game 6, or the Giants could turn to Game 2 starter Ryan Vogelsong.

On the offensive side, Bochy said lineup changes could be on the way, including moving Hunter Pence down in the batting order. Pence, who has hit fifth in all three NLCS games, has struggled in the postseason. He's hitting just .185 in the playoffs, including .090 in the NLCS. Pence has five hits in 27 postseason at bats, all of which are singles.

Game 4 of the series is set for Thursday, with first pitch scheduled for 5 p.m. PT.