San Diego Padres: Steven Wilson shows life as prospect under lockout
By David Hill
The MLB lockout has left quite a few players in limbo. While it is easy to focus on those players remaining in free agency, there are other players who are stuck without recourse as well. Those minor league players on the 40 man roster are still part of the MLBPA, but do not have the resources to withstand the lack of a season. Such is the case with San Diego Padres pitcher Steven Wilson.
It is easy to look at the ongoing labor battle as a struggle between billionaires and millionaires. Wilson is showing that is not the case as he not only explained what pay is like for minor leaguers, but what he is doing to withstand the lockout.
San Diego Padres prospect Steven Wilson shows life under lockout
Wilson has not exactly made much money since being an eighth round selection in the 2018 MLB Draft. He received a $5000 bonus as a senior draft pick since he had little recourse. Since that point, he has made less than $38,000 as a professional pitcher, making it necessary for him to work as an Uber driver.
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It is entirely possible that he can be a part of the Padres’ future in the bullpen. Wilson has moved rapidly through the ranks, reaching Triple-A last year. He has produced a 3.24 ERA and a 1.088 WHiP in his 114 minor league innings, striking out 165 batters with just 44 walks. He has the potential to be a long term piece for San Diego.
The Padres seem to think so as well. Wilson was added to the 40 man roster to protect him from the Rule V Draft, indicating that they feel he can be a part of their future. His inclusion on the 40 man roster should be cause for celebration as he is one step away from fulfilling his major league dreams.
Instead, it is making it impossible for Wilson to go forward. He is stuck in limbo, one of the multitude of prospects who have yet to actually appear in a major league game. He has found a way to make money while the lockout is ongoing, but there are plenty of other minor leaguers in his shoes.
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San Diego Padres prospect Steven Wilson is showing what life is like in the lockout. Keep an eye out if you need an Uber because he might be behind the wheel.