Reliever Justin Wilson explains how Red Sox deal came together so quickly

By Colin McCarthy The Red Sox are in the mix for a number of top-end free agents this offseason according to many MLB insiders and agents.

However, Boston started its spending spree on a quieter note, inking a one-year deal with veteran left-handed reliever Justin Wilson.

Wilson, 37, posted a 5.59 ERA with 51 strikeouts in 2024, but owns a career ERA of 3.61 .

And, most importantly, he provides the Red Sox with an experienced arm and a helping hand for a bullpen that fell off sharply in the second half of 2024.

Wilson made an appearance on Rob Bradfords Baseball Isnt Boring podcast, and explained what made the deal come together so early on in the free agency window.

Well truthfully, it happened fast.

As a reliever, and being older, sometimes youre on the back burner for most of these teams, Wilson said.

About two weeks ago my agent called and said, Heres kind of where we stand, where youre going to fit as far as salary, teams that are going to need left-handed relievers.

...

Wed been talking to Boston, and then it kind of escalated very quickly when I said, lets explore it more, Wilson continued.

And then, one thing after another, its done.

This wasnt Wilsons first trip to free agency.

Boston will be the seventh team hes played for in his 12-year MLB career.

Hes well-versed in how the market operates for relief pitchers, so jumping on the Red Sox deal early was not a difficult decision.

The contract I signed with Boston is kind of what I figured Id land in ...

So, when they make an offer and I feel like its good enough, me personally I dont feel like you go test the market at that point, Wilson said.

Its a good thing to be wanted and I was grateful for the offer and happy with it, so why not move forward? Wilson will look to reinvigorate a Boston bullpen ranked 24th in the MLB in combined ERA.

Sign up for Red Sox updates Get breaking news and analysis delivered to your inbox during baseball season.

Be civil.

Be kind..

This article has been shared from the original article on boston, here is the link to the original article.