Former Giants Closer Brian Wilson Reaches Deal With Dodgers
SAN FRANCISCO (KPIX 5/KCBS) - Closer Brian "The Beard" Wilson, who played such an integral role in the San Francisco Giants' 2010 World Series win, has chosen to sign with the rival Los Angeles Dodgers.
The free-agent Wilson confirmed the deal Tuesday afternoon via Twitter.
Wilson's one-year contract with the Dodgers gives him a guaranteed $1 million. But there was no immediate word on the Dodgers specific plans for Wilson, who will likely require some time to get ready in the minor leagues before joining the big club.
The three-time MLB All-Star is recovering from a second Tommy John surgery, which prematurely ended his 2012 season with the Giants - who reportedly did not extend a contract offer to Wilson for a return.
The 31-year-old has 171 saves, 163 recorded in a four-year span from 2008-11 - which led the big leagues. He has a career 3.21 ERA with 340 strikeouts in 320 innings.
The former all-star, who was given the honor of raising the Giants' first-ever San Francisco championship banner on opening day of the 2011 season, took to Twitter for a second time Tuesday to again thank Giants fans.
Wilson was the key reliever during the Giants' run to the 2010 World Series, striking out 16 in 11 2-3 scoreless innings in the postseason.
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