Matt Shoemaker

Organization Prospect Rankings

• 
  Ranked Los Angeles Angels #27 prospect in 2012
  Shoemaker wasn't drafted out of high school in Trenton, Mich., or in four years at Eastern Michigan, even though he was on scouts' radar after solid summer league performances. He waited another four years to create a ripple in pro ball, winning Angels minor league pitcher of the year honors in 2011. He won the Texas League ERA title at 2.48 and led the league in strikeouts (129), WHIP (1.07), opponent average (.228) and complete games (five) as well. After signing as a nondrafted free agent, he takes nothing for granted and is all business on the mound. Shoemaker attacks hitters with three pitches, though none grades better than solid. His fastball ranges from 87-93 mph and parks at 90, featuring a little life and tailing action. He tries to get lefthanders to chase a low-80s splitter under the zone, and he locates the pitch for strikes as well. His slider shows consistent three-quarters break but not a lot of power at 81-82 mph. He has touched 95 mph in short bursts, which combined with command of his splitter and slider could land him in a major league swingman role. The Angels have tried to bump Shoemaker to Triple-A during the past two seasons, but he hasn't cleared the hurdle. He'll get another shot in 2012.