C.J. Wilson, CC Sabathia on offer in free-agent market – MLB Update
C.J. Wilson and CC Sabathia failed to perform in the postseason after having widely impressed throughout the regular season and with free agency looming, both are being linked with likely transfers to other teams.
Although Wilson represented the Texas Rangers in this year’s Fall Classic, his personal performance was not one to be praised. After losing to St. Louis Cardinals’ Chris Carpenter, Wilson was used in relief during Game 7 of the World Series, but to no avail.
A wild pitch first up with bases loaded saw the Cardinals add a run and extend the lead to three-runs with the scorecard showing 5-2.
Observers have noted that Wilson lacks accuracy and needs to improve his command from the mound, especially after his show in the World Series. Wilson was named as Rangers’ ace after Cliff Lee was acquired by Philadelphia Phillies after Texas lost to San
Francisco Giants in five games last year.
The Rangers are likely to induct a new ace to their bull-pen and Wilson will surely have to look for a ballclub which lacks bull-pen strength. On the contrary, he can opt for a better club as a number two pitcher, but monetary incentive will have to be compromised.
With Wilson most likely out, the Rangers are likely to sign Japanese star Yu Darvish, who has made a name for himself as a starting pitcher in Japan’s Nippon League. Wilson might prefer moving to the Los Angeles Angels, who already have Jered Weaver as their
ace.
Sabathia is likely to stay with the New York Yankees, but it still remains to be seen what the ballclub has to offer. Although the franchise has not signalled anything positive on this matter, the player has expressed his desire to stay at the Bronx.
The Philadelphia Phillies are likely to release starter Roy Oswalt after an ordinary season and an unimpressive postseason. With the Marlins moving to a new ballpark, new manager Ozzie Guillen might lure Oswalt to his camp, in a bid to strengthen the bull-pen
and add experience to the roster.
Nevertheless, it still remains to be seen as to how things unfold in the near future.
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