The Pittsburgh Pirates are still pursuing closers and the latest rumors have them scouting Brian Wilson, who looked very good as he pitched for Major League teams on Thursday. Wilson hasn't pitched in the majors since April of last season after undergoing Tommy John Surgery. Could the Pirates join the party of potential suitors for Wilson, as they are looking to acquire backup following Jason Grilli's trip to the disabled list?
Wilson displayed his stuff in Los Angeles for potential suitors on Thursday, as he is attempting a comeback to the majors. Wilson suffered his injury at the worst time possible. The Giants, who owned Wilson's rights, released him at the end of 2012, when he was eligible for free agency. Sergio Romo replaced Wilson as the closer and notched the final out of the 2012 World Series, striking Miguel Cabrera out looking with his sweeping slider.
Wilson is drawing attention as he put forth an impressive showing where scouts reported his fastball registering between 90-93 MPH. There are plenty of teams on the market looking for a closer or relief help. Danny Knobler of CBS Sports mentioned that the Arizona Diamondbacks, Oakland Athletics, Texas Rangers, Philadelphia Phillies, Colorado Rockies and St. Louis Cardinals also had scouts present at the audition.
The Pirates have used Vin Mazzaro and Mark Melancon as their closers in their last two victories following Grilli's injury. If we've learned something about closers in recent years, it's that not every pitcher, no matter how great they throw, have the components to close out games. Wilson had the swagger and competitive edge to close games for the Giants from 2008-2011. He instantly became a fan favorite with his extraordinary beard and landed plenty of gigs because of his bushy facial hair. The Pirates are currently in the thick of a playoff race and it would be the worst time of the year for them to lack a true closer.
Other guys who could serve the Pirates well at the closer role are Kevin Gregg and, though an expensive solution, Jonathan Papelbon. However, if Wilson continues to impress, the Pirates should really consider acquiring the veteran, World Series winner.