SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. -- The San Francisco Giants are optimistic closer Brian Wilson will be ready for Opening Day after doctors confirmed Monday that he has nothing more than a mild strain on his left side.
Giants manager Bruce Bochy said Wilson already has been exercising in the weight room, but no lifting of weights has been involved.
Wilson
After an off day for the entire team on Tuesday, Wilson will attempt to play catch on Wednesday, although not off the mound.
"We are encouraged by the progress he's made," Bochy said.
The 29-year-old Wilson, who led the majors with 48 saves last year, said he could pitch now if this was the regular season.
"If it's a regular-season game, I'm throwing," Wilson told reporters. "There's really no point in risking anything by going out and pitching the sixth inning of a spring training game on March 21."
If he is out for an extended period, the closer's role likely would be taken by left-handers Jeremy Affeldt or Javier Lopez, or right-hander Sergio Romo.
The defending World Series champions open the season on the road March 31 against the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.
Official TV Stream:
→ Recommended Stream! : Please go here (No More ADS)
→ Low quality stream : Click Here *not guaranteed*