Brian Wilson proved this year that he’s finally healthy and capable of contributing. Now, with Wilson once again a free agent, teams are reportedly lining up for the bearded reliever’s services.
The Red Sox are among the teams interested in Wilson, according to Yahoo! Sports’ Tim Brown. The Giants, Dodgers, Indians, Tigers, Rockies and Mariners reportedly have shown interest as well. And according to Brown, the Reds could jump into the bidding if Aroldis Chapman is moved to the starting rotation.
Wilson’s name was tossed around the league for much of 2013, but it was unclear how he’d perform in the wake of his second Tommy John surgery. The 31-year-old answered skeptics by becoming a valuable member of the Dodgers’ bullpen down the stretch and into the postseason. Wilson posted a 0.66 ERA (one earned run in 13 2/3 innings) and 0.88 WHIP in 18 regular-season appearances, and didn’t allow a run in six innings over six playoff appearances.
WEEI.com reported Tuesday that the Red Sox are unlikely to target any free-agent relievers who might be currently considered closers or of the late-inning variety. But Wilson would provide insurance for closer Koji Uehara, who turns 39 in April, and be capable of pitching in high-leverage situations, so perhaps he’ll be an attractive option for Boston. Wilson, of course, spent four full seasons as the Giants’ closer during his seven-year tenure in San Francisco. The New Hampshire native saved a career-high 48 games in 2010.
[tweet https://twitter.com/TBrownYahoo/status/400731871635460096 align=’center’]
Have a question for Ricky Doyle? Send it to him via Twitter at @TheRickyDoyle or send it here.
