Wilson in the 2011 World Series for the Texas Rangers.
C.J. Wilson was drafted in the fifth round of the 2001 MLB Draft from Loyola Marymount University. Wilson played parts of four Minor League seasons in the Rangers organization before making his MLB debut in 2005. He was an All-Star in consecutive seasons in 2011 and 2012, finishing sixth in the Cy Young Award voting in 2011. Since the young and talented C.J. was drafted rather early, the Rangers had more invested in him than other players, so he was less expendable. However, just like all Minor Leaguers, he went through the grind of the MiLB lifestyle and used it as motivation to reach his dream of becoming an MLB player.
"My first summer was ‘01 and my pre-tax paycheck was $850 for the month for rookie league.
I realized right away that it was only by being a Major Leaguer that we get any chance at having financial stability. Only the best and most complete players make it to the Majors, it is a meritocracy."
- C.J. Wilson