Giants closer Brian Wilson could be out for the season

Brian Wilson’s season could be over after an MRI exam on the San Francisco Giants closer’s right elbow revealed structural damage and an issue with the ligament.

Wilson likely will need surgery, but the Giants will seek at least one other opinion before shutting down the pitcher who led the majors with 48 saves in 2010.

“There’s definitely some issues there,” Giants Manager Bruce Bochy said. “Initially I was just being optimistic he would be fine, but after the test done yesterday it doesn’t look very good right now. … Likely he’s looking at surgery.”

Team athletic trainer Dave Groeschner said Tommy John surgery “would be a possibility” for the 30-year-old Wilson, who already underwent the procedure once in college. Recovery time that surgery is typically a year to 18 months.

“There’s some concern,” said Groeschner, who noted Wilson struggled just to play catch. “He’s stiff. He can’t move it great. It’s not really anything you can see visually.”

Wilson, a three-time All--Star, was sent for tests after complaining of discomfort in his elbow Friday. He was to be examined again by a team orthopedist Saturday night, then placed on the 15-day disabled list by Sunday.

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The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Giants closer Brian Wilson could be out for the season