Scot Shields, who was a durable, sometimes dominant weapon in Mike Scioscia’s bullpen for the last decade, told Mike DiGiovanna of the LA Times that he’s “probably” going to retire after the season. He realizes the Angels have younger options and would like to spend more time with his family.
"On the personal side, your family comes first, and I've missed too much of my life with them. It might be time to go home," Shields said.
Shields missed most of the season’s last month with a sore elbow and his season ERA is now 5.28. The 35-year-old right-hander can still strike opponents out (7.6 K/9), but he walks too many batters (6.7 BB/9). This was Shields’ second consecutive disappointing season; he struggled last year before undergoing knee surgery.
At his best, Shields defined the Angels bullpen (along with Francisco Rodriguez and, for a while, Troy Percival). He averaged 85 innings per season from 2004-08 with more than a strikeout per inning and a 3.11 ERA in that five-year stretch.
Shields is truly under appreciated. Too bad he is retiring. Outside of the past two years he has been a great reliever.
I’m sorry if this offends anyone, but it needs to be said: HoF?
Angels HoF…. Maybe, and a huge maybe that is.
Not even close. He was a great pitcher but lacks the stats by a wide margin.
HoF seems unlikely. I would put some cash n him coming back, before I would bet on him getting to the HoF. But, this guy was a huge part of the angles when they were winning.
you guys arent really serious about putting a set up man in the HoF right?
Isn’t he the all time leader in Holds? (Although I find that stat as useless as Saves frankly)
It’s pretty laughable to suggest Shields should be in the HoF. Especially when superior arms like Henke aren’t in it.
Cheers Scot, 2002 might have been one of the best non-closer seasons in Angels history. Sucks he has to go out this way but its definitely time. Enjoy your life with your family.
A great talent and great pitcher for us and in baseball….and it seems hes going out with style…
cheers scot