Giants Closer Brian Wilson Will Likely Undergo Surgery After MRI Reveals Elbow Issues

San Francisco Giants closer Brian Wilson will likely undergo surgery on his right elbow after an MRI showed structural damage and ligament issues.

Team manager Bruce Bochy said on Saturday that the team will seek the opinion of at least one more specialist, possibly two before any final decision is made. One of those specialists is orthopedist Dr. James Andrews, a renowned surgeon in the practice of Tommy John elbow-reconstruction surgeries.

While Bochy would like to believe his closer will be fine for regular rotation he tells ESPN:

“There’s definitely some issues there,” Bochy said. “Initially, I was just being optimistic he would be fine, but after the test done yesterday, it doesn’t look very good right now. … Likely he’s looking at surgery.”

Wilson is a key component for the team who in 2010 pulled in 48 saves, he’s also a three-time All-Star. This wouldn’t be the first time Wilson would undergo Tommy John surgery, he underwent the same procedure during his college playing days in 2008 while playing for LSU. It’s not clear if Tommy John surgery will be performed but it was listed as a “possibility” because of the structural issues. At this time Brian Wilson has been placed on the 15-day DL which clears up a roster position for starter Ryan Vogelson.

Last season Wilson went 6-4 with a 3.11 ERA and 36 saved during 57 appearances.

At this time the San Francisco Giants are not discussing who would potentially replace Brian Wilson as the teams closer. When pressed about the issue Bochy responded:

“It’ll be similar to last year when Willie was out. We’ll use everybody, go with the hot hand. (Santiago) Casilla may be saving some games. (Sergio) Romo and (Javier) Lopez, we think we’re in good hands there. That’s the game plan right now.”

Who do you think should fill in for Brian Wilson if he’s officially done for the season?