"The Giants and the agent for Tim Lincecum have made significant progress in the 48 hours after arbitration figures were exchanged Wednesday, and sources say both sides are confident of a resolution before a hearing would be scheduled to determine a salary for the two-time Cy Young Award winner.

But both sides are remaining tight-lipped on the expected duration of the contract; Lincecum would hit the open market after the 2013 season and has been hesitant to let the Giants buy out any of his free-agent years. At least there appears to be plenty of common ground on the value of a one- or two-year contract that would take Lincecum through his final seasons of arbitration.

Lincecum asked for $21.5 million and the Giants submitted a $17 million offer on Wednesday. A hearing would take place in February if the two sides cannot come to an agreement."