Report: Rangers to use Lincecum as reliever, will compete for closer role

The next stage of Tim Lincecum's career will come with a different look.

Once the right-hander arrives at Texas Rangers camp, it's expected he'll slot in as a multiple-inning reliever with the chance to win the closer job, according to Jeff Wilson of the Star Telegram.

The 33-year-old made 270 starts throughout his previous 10 major-league seasons, but has some experience out of the pen. He famously tossed 4 2/3 hitless innings during the 2012 World Series, striking out eight.

Lincecum and the Rangers agreed to a one-year contract earlier this week but it hasn't been made official as he still needs to undergo a physical. Lincecum's arrival at camp has been delayed by the death of his older brother last week.

Alex Claudio filled in as the Rangers' closer last season after the team traded Sam Dyson. He posted a 2.50 ERA and 1.04 WHIP with 11 saves.