San Francisco Giants Sign Former Top Prospect Pitcher

Spencer Howard, a 27-year-old right-handed pitcher with a history of promise and setbacks, has embarked on a fresh chapter in his baseball journey by signing a minor league deal with the San Francisco Giants.

Once considered a top prospect, Howard's career has been a rollercoaster ride.

He first gained recognition with an impressive fastball and an array of promising pitches, but injuries and inconsistencies led to his recent struggles in the majors.

Released by the New York Yankees after a brief stint in Triple-A, Howard's career path has taken him through multiple teams, including the Texas Rangers and a short-lived tenure with the Yankees.

The Giants have signed RHP Spencer Howard to a minor league deal. Howard posted a 3.66 ERA with a 12.0 K/9 in the minors while being regarded as one of the better prospects in baseball not that long ago. He had struggled to a 7.20 ERA in 38 appearances in the majors.

— Jeff Young (@BaseballJeff1) September 24, 2023

Despite his setbacks, the Giants see potential in him. They have a reputation for revitalizing pitchers, especially by refining their secondary pitches and improving control.

In San Francisco, Howard may find the opportunity to revive his career, possibly in a relief pitching role, as he seeks to regain his footing in the big leagues.

Over his four-year career in the majors, Howard holds a 7.20 ERA, 1.67 WHIP, with 109 strikeouts across 115 innings and 38 appearances.

He's a former second-round pick by the Philadelphia Phillies in the 2017 MLB Draft. Photo Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports