As the Bay Bridge Series continues on, the San Francisco Giants and Oakland A’s are going to have to try and top the exciting performance of last night in game two this afternoon. Today’s meeting between Tim Lincecum and Brett Anderson should prove to be another pitcher’s duel as the A’s try and even up the series at one game apiece.
Anderson (2-3 3.30 ERA) hasn’t won a game since April 24 against the Mariners, and got a no decision for his six and 2/3 innings of work against the Angels in his last outing. Brett has only pitched at AT&T Park once before where he got lit up for six earned runs in four innings of work, leading to a dismal 13.50 ERA at the home of the Giants. Hopefully he will fare better today.
As for Lincecum (3-4 2.36 ERA), he has had nothing but success against Oakland is his career, sporting a 4-0 record with a 1.45 ERA in those games. He will be looking to bounce back from giving up seven runs against the Rockies in his last outing, trying the most allowed ever in his career. The comfy confines of AT&T Park usually suit the two time Cy Young Award winner, especially in a game with this kind of magnitutde.
The people of the Bay Area love to watch these teams duke it out, especially when they are so evenly matched. Both Bruce Bochy and Bob Geren understand the importance of these games to the fans:
Bochy:
It’s exciting for us because the fans get into it. It’s exciting for them because we’re facing a good club with outstanding pitching, a similar type of club. It should be a good series. We’re glad to be home.
Geren:
“It’s exciting for the Bay Area. I think it’s good for baseball, having two teams with history of a rivalry play each other. Obviously, the Giants are the defending world champions, so that brings an extra flair to a three-game series for sure.”
First pitch is set for 4:10 PT this afternoon with coverage on the Fox Network, KNBR 680 AM, and Sports Radio 95.7 FM.