Giants place Wilson on DL, name Belt starting 1B

Brian Wilson will be eligible to come off the disabled list on April 5.

AP

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) -- Giants closer Brian Wilson will begin this season on the disabled list for the World Series champions.

The long-expected move was made official Wednesday. Wilson is eligible to come off the DL on April 6. He led the majors with 48 saves last season.

San Francisco manager Bruce Bochy said there was no reason to rush his injured closer back for Opening Day. Wilson strained muscle on his left side March 17. He already has been back throwing bullpen sessions.

The Giants also designated Travis Ishikawa for assignment. Promising prospect Brandon Belt made the 25-man roster and will start at first base for the Giants when they open at the Los Angeles Dodgers on Thursday.

"I'm not sure if I'm going to have a heart attack or cry, " Belt said. "This is pretty much the most exciting day of my life."

Bochy said Belt deserved to make the team because he was the best player at his position. Belt will start at first base for the Giants, moving veteran Aubrey Huff -- who was among the first to congratulate the rookie -- to right field.

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