What is wrong with Tim Lincecum?

    It has been a scary scene so far this season for the pitcher known as "The Freak," Tim Lincecum.
    Lincecum has struggled to find his typical form early on, with an ERA over 10. After already winning two Cy Young awards by the time he was 26, any dip in his performance will be highly scrutinized, and many theories will be made as to why he is not playing well.
    Coming off of a year where he posted an ERA under three and struck out slightly over a batter an inning, it's difficult to say that we are witnessing a different type of pitcher. While some critics will point to the fact that his strikeout totals have diminished in each full season, I think that can be attributed to his natural development as a pitcher. While some pitchers will keep very high strikeout rates throughout their careers, it is infrequent and most of them will adapt their pitching as their careers progress to move away from being a flamethrower to an all-around pitcher.
    Lincecum's durability has been questioned since he was drafted due to a slight frame and an unusual pitching motion. However, analyzing his pitching mechanics, every part of his body stays in sync until he releases the ball. Most shoulder and elbow injuries in pitchers occur when the arm is behind the timing of the rest of the body. This practice can easily to Tommy John surgery and a lengthy recovery. By keeping his timing correct in his delivery, he reduces some of the strain on his arm when he releases the ball.
    Lincecum's fastball has been hovering in the low-90's this season, leading to concerns about his health and performance. It is still early in the season, and with one strong start with movement and velocity on his fastball, the negative comments will disappear.
    Every pitcher goes through struggles at some point in their career, and these few starts may just be Lincecum's rough patch. He has pitched well since he arrived at the major league level leading to very high expectations every time he walks to the mound. If he still holds an ERA over 10 in July and his fastball has not gaining life, there may be cause for concern, but the season is still young.
    Personally, I don't think there is anything physically wrong with Lincecum, and one start where he pitches well and goes deep into the game will bring back his usual success.
    Lincecum faces the Mets tomorrow afternoon on the road and will look to get on track this season with a win. If he pitches well against the Mets, it could easily jump-start a strong year for him.