Mets Reportedly Unimpressed With Brian Wilson, Won't Offer Him Major League Deal
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- "The Beard" doesn't appear to be headed to Flushing anytime soon.
Or ever, for that matter.
Relief pitcher Brian Wilson worked out for the Mets at UCLA on Saturday, and according to the New York Post, general manager Sandy Alderson was far from impressed.
"Physically, he's not ready," a baseball source told the newspaper. "He's got a ways to go."
According to the newspaper, the Mets aren't interested in offering Wilson a major league contract, and the former Giants closer isn't interested in signing a minor league deal.
The 30-year-old, who underwent Tommy John surgery last April, was non-tendered by the World Series champions in November, making him a free agent. He pitched in just two games in 2012, allowing two runs in two innings.
The source told the New York Post that if the three-time All-Star is still available come spring training -- and the Mets are looking for arms -- then the team might consider watching him pitch again at that time.
The right-hander's best season came in 2010, when he led the National League in saves. The colorful closer recorded 48 saves that season, pitching to a 1.81 ERA and striking out 93 in 74 2/3 innings pitched. He amassed 35-plus saves every season from 2008 to 2011.
Wilson also underwent Tommy John surgery in 2003 after he injured his elbow.
Frank Francisco is currently slated to be the Mets' closer, with Bobby Parnell, Josh Edgin, Robert Carson, Jeurys Familia and Elvin Ramirez joining him in the bullpen.
Francisco struggled in his first season with New York. He converted 23 of 26 save opportunities, but finished the season with a 5.53 ERA over 42 1/3 innings pitched.
Are the Mets making the right move by passing on "The Beard"? Sound off with your thoughts and comments below...
