Tim_lincecumNot from her

Don't go getting all excited just yet, but Tim Lincecum did confirm that he has a blister on his pitching hand, and it could affect his ability to pitch on short rest in the series.  [Mercury News]

Lincecum confirmed to the Mercury News that his blister problem resurfaced during his dominant 14-strikeout complete game against the Atlanta Braves in the NL Division Series opener Oct. 7.

"It's not a big deal, and we're taking care of it," said Lincecum, who has received extensive treatment.

But if the blister becomes an issue again, it could affect the Giants' ability to match aces in this series — and that could be a major disadvantage against the heavily favored Phillies.

He struck out 14 batters last week with the problem, so I doubt it will make any difference on Saturday, but forcing him to take full rest and not start again until Game 5, could be a factor in the series.  Manuel has hinted that Joe Blanton will pitch in this series (Game 4), meaning Halladay would be scheduled again for Game 5.  However, if the situation dictated it, I'm sure Halladay would be more than available on short rest- Lincecum likely would not be.  That's when this blister could have an impact.