Brian Wilson signed with the Dodgers on Tuesday, effectively letting the team steal away a rival pitcher. While Wilson has been a longtime nemesis of the Dodgers, it appears the Giants’ pitcher has switched sides.
Wilson last pitched in April 2012 and is currently working his way back from reconstructive elbow surgery. Therefore, he won’t immediately start with the Dodgers.
Rather, the team will send him to the minors on a rehabilitation assignment, as is normal for major injuries, reports The Los Angeles Times.
Wilson threw in front of scouts last week and the Dodgers were among the teams present for the display. His contract runs through the end of the year.
But with his background, and hopefully his good rehabilitation, Wilson could easily find another team, or even go back to the Giants if they wish to have him back.
Brian Wilson is a former All-Star closer and World Series hero with the Giants . Provided his rehab goes well, the 31-year-old also has a few years left in him of good pitching. And Wilson received three offers from competitive teams this week. However, it appears the pitcher wanted to stay close to home.
USA Today notes that Wilson helped the Giants win the 2010 World Series and also saved 171 games for them over the course of seven seasons. However, they didn’t offer him a contract after his surgery effectively ended his 2012 season. That fact could be part of his motivation for joining the Dodgers instead.
Wilson already makes his off-season home in Los Angeles. He apparently met with Dodgers General Manager Ned Colletti on Sunday. The pitcher’s contract is guaranteed and runs through the end of the season. However, if he continues to improve, he will likely get more offers.
Are you glad to see Brian Wilson join the Dodgers, or do you think the Giants should have offered him another contract?
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