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Brian Wilson has established himself as a fan-favorite in San Francisco following his heroics the past couple of seasons. After missing almost all of 2012 with elbow surgery, Wilson was non-tendered by the Giants and is now free to sign with whichever team he chooses.
It seemed likely that the 30-year-old reliever would return to the Bay Area in 2013, but that may not be the case. According to this report from Mercury News, the club may feel Wilson isn't worth the $6.8 million he would be guaranteed next year should they tender him a contract. And given the success that closer Sergio Romo experienced in the postseason, Wilson would likely return in a seventh- or eighth-inning role.
Instead, an incentive-laden deal could be in the cards. The deal would reward Wilson for the number of appearances he makes, which is fairly common for pitchers returning from major arm surgery.
Look for the Wilson rumors to really get going next week at the Winter Meetings.