It was reported earlier this week that the Tigers and veteran closer Joe Nathan had “mutual interest,” but ESPN’s Buster Olney hears that the team may end up going in a different direction.
Wilson sat out most of the 2013 season while rehabbing from Tommy John surgery, but he was very impressive after signing with the Dodgers in July, posting a 0.66 ERA and 13/4 K/BB ratio over 13 2/3 regular innings before delivering six scoreless innings during the playoffs. The 31-year-old right-hander has a track record of success as a closer, but he likely won’t cost as much as Nathan, who is coming off two outstanding seasons in his late-30s. That could be significant for the Tigers, who are already looking a a monster payroll for 2014.
The Indians and Rockies are among the other teams who are reportedly interested in Wilson. The Yankees have already been ruled out as a possibility due to their facial hair policy.
