Late October means scares and playoff baseball to a significant portion of the U.S., and San Francisco Giants closer Brian Wilson combines the two. Wilson, a 28 year old of Irish descent, has recently gained notoriety for his mound hijinx as much as his terrific performance. The Giants' closer led the Majors in saves this season with 48, to accompany his sparkling 1.81 ERA, but it's his antics which have drawn more attention.

Wilson frightens opposing batters in the ninth inning with his wild antics and seemingly fake beard (it's simply the product of hair dye.) With the skill of a ninja, Wilson has stolen the playoff dreams of the Atlanta Braves and the Philadelphia Philles this season, shutting the door on both teams. With his Giants up 2-0, and a mere two wins away from clinching their first World Series since moving to San Francisco in 1958, Wilson may well be luckier than a leprechaun this Halloween if his Giants claim World Series glory.