Thyago Vieira staying with Yomiuri Giants for one more year

Thyago Vieira was seemingly set up for a return to the majors. He had put together an excellent 2021 campaign with the Yomiuri Giants, establishing himself as a dominant closer while setting the Nippon Professional Baseball record for the hardest pitch thrown. With five teams reportedly having an interest in his services, it was just a matter of finding the right contract.

That possible return is on hold, at least for now. Vieira has signed a one year deal to return to the Giants, his third season with the organization.

Thyago Vieira staying in Japan for 2022

While it may be a bit of a surprise that Vieira is returning to Japan, it is not entirely unexpected. He did not have a deal in place prior to the lockout, and with no end in sight, it made sense to take the guaranteed paycheck with the Giants. Likewise, another dominant season will only improve his earning potential stateside, especially as teams look to solidify their bullpen.

Vieira did not exactly light up the majors during his first stint stateside. He posted a 7.36 ERA and a 1.792 WHiP in his 25.2 innings, striking out 24 batters while issuing 14 walks. While he had an excellent fastball, Vieira had no command of it, hindering his effectiveness.

While command is still an issue for Vieira, it has certainly improved in his time with the Giants. He has emerged as their closer, a flamethrower who has been able to handle the ninth inning. Vieira has posted a 3.04 ERA and a 1.350 WHiP in his 80 innings in the NPB, striking out 93 batters with 43 walks while notching 19 saves.

Should Vieira continue to show that he can be a viable closer in Japan while making strides with his command, those major league opportunities should be there once again in the next offseason. He could still make his return to the majors, albeit one year later than expected.

Thyago Vieira is staying with the Yomiuri Giants for at least one more year. His hoped for major league opportunity will have to wait.