The Royals announced that they have claimed Braden Shewmake off waivers from the White Sox. The infielder had been designated for assignment by Chicago a week ago when they acquired left-hander Tyler Gilbert.
Shewmake, 27, was the 21st overall pick of the 2019 draft, selected by the Braves out of Texas A&M. He’s appeared in parts of two big league seasons between Atlanta and Chicago but has only 71 plate appearances to his credit, during which he’s posted an anemic .118/.127/.191 batting line. Obviously, 71 plate appearances isn’t much to go off, but Shewmake has been a light hitter even in the upper minors; he’s a .240/.299/.395 hitter in 866 plate appearances at the Triple-A level.
Though he’s never hit much, Shewmake is regarded as a sound, surehanded defender at shortstop who’s garnered additional experience at second base and third base in recent seasons. Statcast credits him with above-average sprint speed and arm strength. He still has a minor league option remaining as well, so he won’t need to make the Royals’ Opening Day roster.
Rather, Shewmake can be stashed in Triple-A as a defensive-minded depth piece who can fill in at the big league level in the event of injuries to any of Bobby Witt Jr., Jonathan India, Maikel Garcia or Michael Massey. With a strong spring, the former first-rounder could play his way into consideration for a utility role himself; he’ll join Nick Loftin and non-roster invitee Cavan Biggio in that mix.
Where can you find the waiver order list
It sure feels odd seeing The Kansas City Royals making the off season moves to make it to the playoffs —- rather than the St. Louis Cardinals.
I feel like that guy is missing an R on the end of his name. Lazy immigration officer when his family came through Ellis Island?
Or maybe since Schumacher is a German last name, his family went through a whole lot to force them to change it to “Shewmake” instead? Who knows.
Shewmake is Scottish if I had to bet
Son in laws name is Shumake and that’s exactly why.
Is Loftin considered equal to Shewmake as far as talent goes?
No
Loftin > Shewmake and it’s not even really close
At 6’3″, Braden is a “really big Shew”.
Maybe Loftin to be included in a package to the Mets.
By my count, Shewmake is the 40th on the 40 man.
I want them to pick up Cartaya if he falls. I know they are flush with catching prospects, and everybody wants Jensen to be next in line, but Cartaya is a quality prospect and would be valuable inventory. Get him.
I guess I was wrong when I said Braden shew make through waivers.