Giants move struggling Tim Lincecum to the bullpen

Right-hander Tim Lincecum has been moved to the San Francisco Giants’ bullpen as he tries to work through his latest struggles.

Yusmeiro Petit will replace him in the rotation, Manager Bruce Bochy said Monday. Bochy met with Lincecum (10-9 with a 4.64 earned-run average) on Sunday about the decision.

Lincecum, the two-time NL Cy Young Award winner, is coming off the second-shortest start of his career Saturday at Washington. He was tagged for six runs, four earned, on six hits with four walks in 2 2/3 innings.

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St. Louis Cardinals catcher Yadier Molina (thumb surgery) and right-hander Michael Wacha (right shoulder) are ready for the next step in their return from the disabled list. General Manager John Mozeliak said that Molina and Wacha will report to Double-A Springfield this week to continue their rehabilitation. ... Red Sox slugger David Ortiz was ruled out for Boston’s game against the Toronto Blue Jays because of a bruised right foot. ... The Pittsburgh Pirates sent rookie outfielder Gregory Polanco back to Triple-A Indianapolis, believing a week in the minors will help him break out of his freefall. Polanco made his major league debut on June 10 and recorded at least one hit in his first 11 games but has slumped since the All-Star break. He is one for 30 since Aug. 13, with his batting average dipping to a season-low .241. ... The Chicago White Sox optioned outfielder Jordan Danks to Triple-A Charlotte.