The Cubs made a deadline move for Tigers reliever Justin Wilson last July, and while at the time it seemed like a great move, Wilson didn’t play up to expectations. Coming from Detroit sporting a solid 2.68 ERA with 13 saves, but the transition to the NL wasn’t great as Wilson ended the season with a 5.09 ERA with the Cubs.
Wilson eventually lost his postseason spot as well, as Maddon elected to leave the 29-year-old lefty off the roster for the NLCS. However, Wilson still showed promise in moments, particularly his ability to mow down hitters.
Apparently his poor second half didn’t scare away teams in the MLB as the Twins have emerged as potential suitors for Justin Wilson.
While #Padres will listen again on Chaska's Brad Hand as will BAL on Britton, #mntwins could make another run at LHP Justin Wilson, per multiple sources. Ex-DET closer flopped w/#Cubs, carries $4.3 M arb projection as 5+ guy. MN wanted him badly when NYY moved JW after 2015.
— Mike Berardino (@MikeBerardino) November 22, 2017
Mike Berardino of the Pioneer Press reports the Twins have had a long interest in Wilson, dating back to his time with the Yankees. However, despite the interest in Wilson, the Cubs are unlikely to move the veteran lefty at this time.
With the Cubs unsure of the return of Wade Davis, the team’s best option at closer may be Justin Wilson. Outside of Hector Rondon, who has his own issues, Wilson is the only arm in the Cubs bullpen currently who has experience closing games.
Plus, there is no way the Cubs sell low on Wilson after giving up two solid prospects in Jeimer Candelario and Isaac Paredes. On top of that, the Twins are likely interested in Wilson now as a buy-low option compared to the costs a Brad Hand or Zach Britton may cost.
If the Twins want to acquire Wilson, the Cubs would likely be asking for something similar to Wilson back, which makes this deal seem unlikely. But if the Cubs do make some moves this offseason in regards to the bullpen, then maybe Wilson becomes expendable?
Who knows, but as it stands right now, the Twins may like Justin Wilson but his perceived value to the Cubs is going to make it hard for them to move him at this time.
