SURPRISE, Ariz. -- Tim Lincecum's first Cactus League appearance for the Rangers has been delayed after he developed a blister on his pitching hand.
The right-hander had been scheduled to make his first exhibition game appearance for Texas in Friday's game against the Padres in Peoria. But even had he been able to pitch, manager Jeff Banister said it would still be a "challenge" for Lincecum to be ready for Opening Day on March 29. The Rangers signed Lincecum on March 7, and he has thrown two batting practices in camp in addition to his bullpen sessions.