Neftali Feliz likely to replace C.J. Wilson in 2012 season – MLB News
Despite the Texas Rangers having presented their star pitcher C.J. Wilson an arbitration offer and the player has to decide about the offer before December 7, the American League western club still has an option for the 2012 season. As Wilson is showing
his interest with other clubs, the Rangers have already signed his back-up for the 2012 season.
Before deciding about C.J. Wilson, the Rangers had signed the free agent Joe Nathan in a two-year $14.5 million deal. The agreement is a big relief for the club as they were in need of the backup in case Wilson declines to accept the arbitration offers.
It has been reported that Wilson might prefer to decline the offer, as it will open for him a big market having a high salary option for him. The New York Yankees approached Wilson’s agent with an offer to acquire under a handsome deal, however the club
now is reluctant to hire him for his high salary. His meeting with the Los Angeles Angels has also been reported this past week, which has given an indication of his interests in other clubs. He has also scheduled a meeting with the Miami Marlins, the former
Florida Marlins, for next week.
Last year, Wilson provided a perfect game to the Rangers, with a 16-7 record and a 2.94 ERA in 34 regular season games. He was one of the reasons the Rangers entered into the World Series. Wilson is more likely to accept a multi-year deal by any other club
by avoiding the arbitration offers.
His decision will not however affect the Rangers, as the club also acquired Neftali Feliz. Although Feliz spent his season as a relief pitcher with the Minnesota Twins, his performance has provided the Rangers confidence to place him at a starting position.
Last year, Neftali set a record in the Twins franchise with his 260 saves. Neftali had to miss the 2010 season because of Tommy John surgery, but appeared in 48 games in the 2011 season, including 17 chances for saves. He availed 14 of the 17 available chances
and also set 2-1 with a 4.84 ERA.
Neftali has already practiced to convert from closer into a starter before the start of this past season, but Rangers did not provide him a chance. Now they have to prepare the right-hander for the position to keep up with the same pace.
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