Red Sox Secure Veteran Reliever Justin Wilson to Strong Impact in 2024 Season
The Boston Red Sox made headlines this offseason by swiftly signing left-handed reliever Justin Wilson to a one-year, $2.25 million contract just 15 days post-World Series. This decision came after the club’s interest in Wilson during the 2024 trade deadline was unfulfilled, leading them to prioritize him early in the offseason despite a lackluster previous season where he posted a 5.59 ERA over 60 outings.
Fast forward to the current season, Wilson has proven the Red Sox’s faith was well-founded. With a remarkable 2.08 ERA in 32 games, Wilson has transformed into one of the team’s most reliable relievers. His metrics speak volumes—ranking in the 99th percentile for barrel percentage and boasting a 95th percentile expected ERA of 2.47. Wilson’s ability to limit hard contact makes him a crucial asset for Boston’s bullpen.
Red Sox Chief Baseball Officer Craig Breslow noted, "He’s been awesome," appreciating Wilson’s track record and performance capabilities on the big stage. The veteran’s career statistics highlight his extensive experience, revealing 155 holds and 20 saves across 619 appearances.
Pitching Coach Andrew Bailey acknowledged the significant improvement Wilson has shown this season, particularly in high-leverage situations, where he has held opponents to a .214 batting average. Wilson’s sharp slider and four-seam fastball have been instrumental, yielding a combined .196 expected batting average against these pitches.
Wilson expressed enthusiasm about his performance, stating, “It’s been exciting out there. I feel like I’ve pitched in high leverage for most of my career… and hopefully just keep helping the team.” As the Red Sox look to build momentum this season, Wilson’s consistent leadership and performance will be pivotal in their pursuit of success.
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