The Texas Rangers offered salary arbitration to starting pitcher C.J. Wilson on Wednesday, but that doesn't mean he'll be in a Rangers uniform next season.
Wilson, who is currently a free agent, has been shopping around for a big-time pitching deal. He has been in the Rangers starting rotation for the past two seasons, including both World Series runs, but didn't exactly shine during this latest postseason bid.
In the 2011 postseason, Wilson clocked a 5.79 ERA and 0-3 record.
According to the Rangers, with Wednesday's offer, the club would be rewarded "with the compensation of two additional draft picks in the 2012 MLB First Year Draft." That is if Wilson declines the offer and signs with another club.
Despite the performance in the post season, Wilson was still an ace for the Rangers and a big part in the team making it to the championship. Wilson's agent has already met with the Angels, which is of interest considering the lefty is from California.
During arbitration, the arbitrator has the authority to choose between two salary amounts, one submitted by the team and the other submitted by the player but the player has to have been playing for the club anywhere between three and six years.
Wilson has until 11 p.m. CST Wednesday night to accept or decline the Rangers' offer.
Other notes from the Texas Rangers:
As a result of the collective bargaining process completed on Tuesday, Texas did not have to offer arbitration to left-handed pitcher Darren Oliver, a Type A player who will be treated as a Type B player. If Oliver should sign with another team, the Rangers will automatically receive compensation.
Texas also did not offer salary arbitration to four other unranked free agents where no compensation applies: LHP Michael Gonzalez, RHP Brandon Webb, catcher Matt Treanor, and outfielder Endy Chavez. Treanor has signed a 2012 contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers.
