Brian Wilson: Giants' Closer Reportedly May Need Surgery on Ailing Elbow

San Francisco Giants closer Brian Wilson might be heading to the disabled list for an extended period of time. 

Update: Sunday, April 15 at 3:07 p.m. ET

Below, we have a tweet from CSN's Andrew Baggarly where he reported that Wilson confirmed he is done for the season. 

That is not official yet. In a print article, Baggarly reported: 

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Giants closer Brian Wilson is headed for a second opinion on his right elbow, but he confirmed he anticipates having Tommy John surgery and is out for the season.

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Update: Sunday, April 15 at 2:50 p.m. ET

Brian Wilson is done for the year. At least if you believe him, which is sometimes a risky proposition, but in this case, it seems safe to say we can take him for his word. At least, as far as his outlook for this season is concerned. 

CSN's Andrew Baggarly tweeted out the news.

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Wilson says his season is over. Had whimsical take on it. Called it a minor thing to miss a season because he plans on pitching forever.

— Andrew Baggarly (@CSNBaggs) April 15, 2012"

Update: Saturday, April 14 at 7:40 p.m. ET

It is not looking good for Wilson seeing action this season. The Bay Area News Group's Carl Steward reported that an MRI revealed "structural issues" and that both manager Bruce Bochy and trainer Dave Groeschner have resigned themselves to the fact that season-ending surgery is "likely." 

Bochy also confirmed that it will be closer by committee in his absence. 

Wilson has been struggling with his velocity, and it is now becoming apparent why. The Bay Area News Group's Carl Steward tweeted out the following news.

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Brian Wilson has structural issues with elbow. Likely looking at surgery says Bochy. Will get second opinion. Will see Dr A ndrews

— Carl Steward (@stewardsfolly) April 14, 2012"

Wilson previously had Tommy John surgery in 2003. Last season he missed 30 games with an elbow strain. 

Wilson had appeared in two games this season and pitched two innings. He has an ERA of 9.00 for the season with two walks, two strikeouts and a save. 

Wilson has been one of the league's premier closers. He has recorded at least 36 saves in each of his past four seasons. 

It would be futile to speculate how long Wilson will be out if he does undergo the surgery. Elbow problems are always tricky when dealing with a pitcher, and even minor problems can completely derail a career.

Any prolonged absence will be a big blow to the Giants. Wilson has been their clear-cut first option at closer for the past four seasons.

Without a clear second option to replace him, look for the Giants to turn to a closer by committee approach, and hope that one member of the committee proves to have the makeup to handle the role.