Tim Lincecum, lovingly called “The Freak,” was an iconic Major League Baseball (MLB) pitcher who left his mark on the San Francisco Giants. His extraordinary pitching style and knack for striking out batters earned him two Cy Young Awards and four All-Star appearances throughout his career.
Despite Tim Lincecum’s successful career, injuries hindered his later years and he has not been seen in the Major Leagues since 2016. But what does this former MLB sensation have planned next? Let us investigate further to uncover his current pursuits!
Retirement from Baseball
After battling injuries and diminishing performance, the Los Angeles Angels released Lincecum in August 2016. Though his agent Rick Thurman declared that he was not retired but taking a break from baseball later in 2018, it gradually grew obvious that his career as an MLB pitcher had concluded. Since then, no other team has come forward to sign him.
Life Outside of Baseball
Since his baseball career came to a close, Lincecum has stayed relatively out of the public sphere. Nevertheless, we have noticed several clues about what he’s been doing during that time.
Pursuing Other Interests
Lincecum is well-known for his passion for the great outdoors, particularly hunting and fishing. In an interview with The Players’ Tribune, he mentioned that now that baseball was no longer part of his life, he could spend more time doing what he loves. Moreover, Lincecum revealed a desire to take up other activities such as golfing and snowboarding.
Beyond his favorite pastimes, Lincecum has exhibited a strong interest in music. In 2016, he even uploaded a video of himself drumming on Instagram! He is regularly seen at various concerts and music festivals; although it’s uncertain if he has any intentions to pursue this as an occupation, it’s been made obvious that the art form plays an integral role in his extracurricular life.
Staying Out of the Spotlight
Despite his celebrity status, Lincecum has consistently shied away from the limelight. After retiring from baseball, he’s maintained a low profile and declined to grant interviews or make public appearances. Naturally, this leads onlookers to speculate on what transpires in his private life; however, Lincecum remains steadfastly silent about its details.
Charitable Work
Even though he’s been laying low, Lincecum is still finding ways to make a difference. In 2017, he donated $100,000 to the University of Washington’s baseball program where he used to play college ball. Additionally, through the Major League Baseball Players Trust—a nonprofit which aids in disaster relief and youth baseball programs—he’s participated in countless charitable activities that have changed lives across the US.
Possible Comeback?
Even after his retirement in 2016, there have been whispers that Tim Lincecum may return to the MLB. It wasn’t until 2018 that his agent declared that he was still considering a comeback with the condition of finding “the right opportunity”. Yet, since then, no further news of him making an official attempt has popped up – leaving it all as speculation for now.
Come December 2021, Lincecum shocked the world by joining a professional baseball team in South Korea’s KBO League – the Samsung Lions. As one of the most prominent international leagues outside North America, many wondered if he would take on this challenge and exceed his success before retirement. His loyal supporters can’t wait to witness what he’s capable of now that he’s back pitching again!
Final Thoughts
Although Tim Lincecum is no longer in the big leagues, he has not vanished from public view. In recent years, while keeping a relatively low profile, he’s been busy indulging his interests outside of baseball such as fishing, hunting, music, and philanthropy.
Excitement has been mounting with the resurgence of rumors that Lincecum is making a comeback, which was only further intensified by his signing with Samsung Lions in the KBO League. Regardless of whichever path he takes next, fans will continue to be amazed and inspired by his unique skill set as well as his commitment to excellence.
