Report: Giants pitcher Tim Lincecum could need hip surgery

Giants pitcher Tim Lincecum could need surgery for his nagging hip condition.

Giants pitcher Tim Lincecum could need surgery for his nagging hip condition, reports CBS Sports's Jon Heyman.

Lincecum will reportedly visit well-known hip specialist Marc Philippon Wednesday in Vail, Colo. to receive another opinion on the hip, after visiting multiple doctors without making significant progress. A final determination on potential surgery will likely come with it.

Heyman reports Lincecum hasn't experienced “severe” hip pain, but multiple comeback attempts have been hampered by the problem, which affects his stability on the mound and factors into his high-torque delivery. Doctors reportedly believe Lincecum could be back for spring training if he goes through the surgery, and potentially able to regain some of his previous form. His velocity has dipped considerably from his high-90s prime and floated in the low 90s to the high 80s this season. 

Lincecum, 31, is 7-4 with a 4.13 ERA this season. He's been out since July 27 after being hit by a line drive while pitching against the Rockies. He will be a free agent this off-season.

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