Wilson -- the other one -- vies for job

By MIKE HENRY
mhenry@bradenton.com

Getting to the big leagues is thrill enough for any player. After getting claimed off waivers from Tampa Bay in December, Pirates middle infielder Josh Wilson has a chance to experience the best of both worlds.
The 26-year-old Wilson (no relation to Pittsburgh shortstop Jack Wilson) was born and grew up in Pittsburgh, graduating from nearby Mt. Lebanon High in 1999.
"I always wanted to play for the Pirates when I was a kid," said Wilson, who is competing for a utility spot on the Opening Day roster behind the other Wilson and second baseman Freddy Sanchez. "It's the team I grew up watching, which is special for anyone, and I was in elementary school when they won the division (from 1990-92).
"It always wanted to be a baseball player, but I wanted to be a Pittsburgh Pirate, too. It's pretty cool," Wilson said.
It will be super-cool if he joins Jack Wilson and Co. in Atlanta for the March 31 season opener.
In 105 combined games last season for Washington and the Rays, who claimed Wilson off waivers in May, he batted .238 with two home runs and 24 RBIs. He batted .251 in 90 games for Tampa Bay.
"I'm approaching this like I would any other spring training. I need to work hard and do what I can to earn a job," said Wilson, who is competing with Chris Gomez, Brian Bixler and non-roster invitees such as Luis Rivas, Jorge Velandia, Luis Cruz and Neil Walker for a roster position.
"Competition is always good. It certainly can bring out the best in you or bring out the worst in you. My whole focus is to let it bring out the best, and hopefully at the end of the day the coaches see something that they like more in me.
"I've played in the big leagues, so it's nothing new. Pressure is something you put on yourself when you think you're not prepared," Wilson said. "I know I'm prepared, so all I need to do is go out and play and everything will take care of itself."