Padres News: James Shields Traded to White Sox
James Shields is heading back to the American League Central division. The right handed pitcher has been dealt to the Chicago White Sox.
Shields, who signed a four-year, $75 million contract prior to the start of last season, struggled to live up to expectations. He won just 13 games last season while posting a 3.91 ERA. To this point during 2016, he has a 2-7 record with a 4.28 ERA.
His last start for the Padres resulted in a short outing against the Seattle Mariners on May 31. He pitched only 2 2/3 innings, giving up 10 runs on eight hits, and also gave up four walks.
Shields now heads to Chicago looking for a fresh start with a new team. He joins a rotation headlined by Chris Sale and Carlos Quintana. He already has experience against the competition in the AL Central after playing two seasons with the Kansas City Royals.
In their most public admission of a rebuild to date, the Padres have traded James Shields to the White Sox. https://t.co/vEZnUBvFar
— Dennis Lin (@sdutdennislin) June 4, 2016
In return, San Diego receives two prospects from the White Sox: pitcher Erik Johnson and shortstop Fernando Tatis, Jr.
Johnson, 26, made eight starts for AAA Charlotte this season, going 2-1 with a 2.94 ERA. He also made two starts for the White Sox, losing both.
Tatis, Jr., 17, was signed as an international free agent by Chicago last year.
Shields deal is officially official. Padres posted a release. Tatis and Johnson coming to SD for Shields and cash considerations.
— AJ Cassavell (@AJCassavell) June 4, 2016
The Padres are sending $29 million to Chicago to help pay the rest of his salary. He’s owed $56 million over the next two-and-a-half seasons with a $16 million option for 2019, which includes a $2 million buyout. He also has the option to opt out after this season.
Shields was scheduled to start on June 5 against the Colorado Rockies. The team has yet to announce who will start in his place.
Mike is the sports editor for the Fayette Advertiser, and has been with East Village Times since 2015. His work has appeared on Bleacher Report. He is an avid Padres fan who is keeping the faith and trusting the process.