Minnesota Twins: Matt Shoemaker looking to rebuild career in Japan

The 2021 season was a disaster for Matt Shoemaker. Signed by the Minnesota Twins to shore up the middle of their rotation, he instead had a career worst showing, leading to his being outrighted from the 40 man roster in July. Eventually released by Minnesota, he signed a minor league deal with the Giants but did not return to the majors last season.

Shoemaker is now looking to resurrect his career. As such, he is heading to Japan, having signed a one year deal with the Yomiuri Giants.

Matt Shoemaker looking to put Minnesota Twins disaster behind him

There was a time when Shoemaker appeared to be a solid middle of the rotation arm. From 2014 through 2016, he was the type of pitcher that the Angels needed, someone who could make a difference amongst their starters.

But injuries took their toll. Shoemaker was still solid when he took the mound, but he made a total of 32 appearances between 2017 and 2020. Even though he was healthy last season, he was not close to the same pitcher he had been, posting an 8.06 ERA and a 1.657 WHiP over his 60.1 innings, striking out 40 batters while issuing 27 walks and allowing 15 homers.

It is entirely possible that a trip to Japan will change Shoemaker’s trajectory. He had been a solid major league arm before and could find success again. It certainly would not be a shock if he had a strong showing with the Giants.

Although he will pitch at 35 years old in 2022, he could still have time to return to the majors. Teams are always looking for pieces to fill out the back end of their rotation, and a strong showing in Japan could lead to another opportunity. But it is a matter of Shoemaker staying healthy and proving that his home run issues last season were a fluke.

Matt Shoemaker had a disastrous showing with the Minnesota Twins in 2021. He is now looking to rebuild his career with the Yomiuri Giants.