When the Florida Marlins hung a line in the water for closer Brian Fuentes last July, they reeled in a boot. The Rockies told them he was off limits, but during the talks Colorado officials mentioned someone they had interest in: Josh Wilson.
Moving on several fronts today, the Rockies acquired Wilson, finalized starter Byung-Hyun Kim’s $1.5 million contract and moved closer to signing versatile Eli Marerro.
Wilson provides protection at shortstop and organizational depth as Omar Quintanilla develops. The team would like to have Wilson compete for a utility role and has intensified its pursuit of former Twins second baseman Luis Rivas. The Rockies remain interested in Willie Harris and have cooled on Alex S. Gonzalez and Ramon Martinez.
“Wilson is very athletic, can play the middle infield positions and is a blue-collar kid,” manager Clint Hurdle said. “He will get a chance.”
Kim’s role is much bigger and important for a team trying to secure its first winning season since 2000. He will occupy the fourth spot in the starting rotation after going 5-9 with a 4.37 ERA in 22 games. Kim will make $1.25 million with a club option for $2.5 million or a $250,000 buyout for 2007. He can nearly double his income on each base salary if he approaches 200 innings.
Said general manager Dan O’Dowd: “B.K. gets it. He knows what our expectations are for him.”
Hurdle indicated the Rockies should know no later than Sunday if Marrero has accepted their offer. Given the market established by Damian Jackson and Marlon Byrd, Marrero would likely cost around $750,000 on a one-year, non-guaranteed deal. Hurdle has spoken with Marrero and likes the idea of having a reserve outfielder who can also catch.
O’Dowd continues trolling for relief help, particularly another left-hander. Alan Embree and Jason Christiansen are available.
Wilson was designated for assignment two days ago, leaving the Marlins 10 days to trade or release him. The Rockies moved quickly, agreeing to sending a player to be named or cash for Wilson, who hit .257 with in Triple-A Albuquerque last season.
Wilson, 24, made his major league debut last September and played in 11 games for the Marlins.
