Justin Wilson's arrival couldn't have come at a better time for the Cubs as they prepare to open a three-game series Friday against the Nationals.
But manager Joe Maddon said President Theo Epstein and his staff weren't looking precisely at a left-handed reliever to combat the likes of Nationals left-handed hitting threats Bryce Harper, Daniel Murphy and Brian Goodwin, and Chase Utley, Corey Seager and Cory Bellinger if they face the Dodgers in the playoffs.
"The boys were just going after a good arm," Maddon said Thursday. "There were some right-handed guys involved, too. If you look at (Wilson), he does very well against both sides. He's a strong neutral guy.
"You saw the (strikeout) of Paul Goldschmidt with that breaking ball that was so good (Wednesday). Our guys see what we perceive to have the best fit. But the discussion wasn't about getting another lefty because of these teams."
Wilson looked forward to being part of an important series since being traded Sunday night from the Tigers.
"That's what the game is about, really," Wilson said. "Especially when guys have track records, power hitters _ that's what makes it fun.
"I'm excited to pitch, regardless of who I'm facing. But absolutely, it's a fun part of the game."
Harper is hitless in two career at-bats against Wilson and Murphy 0 for 5 with three strikeouts.
