Former Chicago Cubs pitcher Tyler Chatwood heading to Japan

Tyler Chatwood had appeared to have begun a new chapter to his career. The former Chicago Cubs pitcher had initially shown promise in a bullpen role in 2019 and was set to reprise that role with the Blue Jays in 2021. Instead, he struggled mightily last season, eventually being released by Toronto before signing a minor league deal with the Giants.

Now Chatwood is following the path that many other players have taken in recent years. According to Hochi News out of Japan, he is set to sign a one year deal with the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks for the upcoming season.

Former Chicago Cubs pitcher Tyler Chatwood hoping to resurrect career

Chatwood made a total of 32 appearances covering 32 innings last season. He did not exactly provide much relief in that time, posting a 5.63 ERA and a 1.469 WHiP. While he did strike out 38 batters in that time, he also issued 21 walks.

Those walks have been an issue for Chatwood throughout his career. Since undergoing Tommy John surgery in 2014, and requiring a second procedure due to a setback in his recovery, he has not had a season where he posted BB/9 rate below 4.0.

It is possible that his trek to Japan can solve his command issues. They could work on his mechanics, or change something entirely, allowing him to rediscover the potential that made him an intriguing prospect with the Angels and Rockies.

It is unclear as to what role Chatwood will fill in Japan. If he returns to the rotation and has a strong year, it would open up more possibilities for a possible return stateside. However, based on his strong velocity and spotty command, a shift to the bullpen is likely to be in the cards anyway.

Former Chicago Cubs pitcher Tyler Chatwood is heading to Japan as he has reportedly signed with the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks for the 2022 season.