Braden Shewmake – New York Yankees Biography, Contract, Net Worth Information

Braden Shewmake has quickly made a name for himself as a rising talent in Major League Baseball. Hailing from Texas, he now plays shortstop for the New York Yankees and stepped onto an MLB field for the first time on May 5, 2023. Shewmake signed a one-year contract worth $740,350, which fits his current status as a developing player in the majors.

Shewmake’s college days at Texas A&M really set him apart. The Atlanta Braves picked him in the first round of the 2019 MLB Draft, 21st overall. His journey to the big leagues shows off his dedication and natural athleticism. With a net worth estimated at $3,132,300, the infielder—born November 19, 1997—has put himself in a solid spot for long-term success in pro baseball.

Early Life and Background

Braden Jack Shewmake’s path to Major League Baseball started with a supportive family and a strong educational base, both of which shaped his growth as an athlete. Those early years built the work ethic and baseball skills that eventually led him to the New York Yankees.

Family and Childhood

Braden Shewmake was born on November 19, 1997, to parents who encouraged his love for baseball from day one. His dad, Shane Shewmake, coached college baseball at UT-Tyler and played a huge role in Braden’s development. Baseball just ran in the family, and that made it easy for Braden to pick up the game.

He grew up in a house where baseball was always in the air. Whether it was tossing the ball in the backyard or playing in local leagues, Braden spent countless hours practicing.

The Shewmake family always valued both sports and academics, which helped Braden stay balanced as he grew up.

Hometown and Upbringing

Braden grew up in Wylie, Texas, a suburb northeast of Dallas. It’s the kind of place where sports are a big deal, and the warm weather meant he could play ball pretty much year-round.

Wylie’s baseball scene is competitive, and Braden jumped right in from an early age. The local passion for the sport definitely shaped his drive and understanding of the game.

Young Braden often hung out at local parks and baseball fields, working on his fielding and hitting after school. The community’s support for youth sports gave him plenty of chances to show off his growing talent.

Education and High School Athletics

Shewmake went to Wylie East High School, where he became a standout shortstop. His stats and leadership on the team caught the eye of college scouts.

He managed to keep up a strong academic record while excelling on the field. That discipline in the classroom seemed to go hand-in-hand with his performance in games.

The school’s athletic program and coaching staff helped him sharpen his abilities. Between homecoming games, pep rallies, and tough practices, Braden found a way to keep it all balanced.

His success at Wylie East led to a scholarship at Texas A&M University, where he kept developing as a player before Atlanta picked him in the first round of the 2019 MLB Draft.

College Career and Development

Braden Shewmake’s years at Texas A&M University really set the stage for his pro career. With the Aggies, he showed off his plate discipline, defensive skills at shortstop, and leadership—qualities that MLB scouts noticed.

Texas A&M Performance

Shewmake showed up at Texas A&M in 2017 and made an immediate impact as a freshman. He hit over .300 every season, which is no small feat. His sophomore year stands out: a .327 average, 5 home runs, and 45 RBIs.

By his junior year, Shewmake’s plate discipline really stood out; he struck out less than most of his peers. That knack for making contact became one of his trademarks.

On defense, he showed great range and a strong arm. His fielding percentage got better every season, thanks to his hard work.

Notable Achievements in NCAA

Shewmake’s college career was packed with awards. As a freshman, he won SEC Freshman of the Year and made First-Team All-SEC. He even earned Collegiate Baseball All-American honors.

In 2018, he made the All-SEC Second Team and picked up All-Tournament honors at the SEC Tournament. He kept landing on watchlists for big college baseball awards.

Shewmake helped lead the Aggies to the NCAA Tournament every year he played. He seemed to thrive in high-pressure games against tough opponents.

Draft Preparations and Scouting

By his junior year, MLB scouts were a regular sight at Texas A&M games. His steady play and all-around skills kept boosting his draft stock. Scouts liked his smooth swing and high baseball IQ.

They also saw his versatility—he could handle multiple infield spots. At 6’4″, he had room to add power without losing his ability to hit for contact.

Mock drafts had him pegged as a first-rounder. He did several pre-draft workouts and impressed teams with his fielding and quick bat. His professional attitude in interviews only helped his case, showing he had the mental makeup for pro ball.

Professional Debut and Minor League Journey

Braden Shewmake kicked off his pro career when the Atlanta Braves drafted him. His time in the minors showed how much he could grow as a shortstop and hinted at his future in the majors.

MLB Draft Selection

The Atlanta Braves took Shewmake with the 21st pick in the first round of the 2019 MLB Draft. He came out of Texas A&M as a polished infielder with a smooth lefty swing and solid defense.

After signing, Shewmake got a signing bonus of $3,132,300. That kind of investment showed the Braves had high hopes for him. He joined a draft class full of other top Braves prospects, making him part of Atlanta’s future plans.

The Braves liked his three-year college run, especially his OPS of .868 and his plate discipline.

Transition to the Minor Leagues

Shewmake started his pro journey at Rookie level, but he didn’t stay there long—he quickly moved up to Class-A Rome and showed he could handle pro pitching.

By 2021, he reached Double-A Mississippi. There, he kept working on his offense and defense. The Braves’ player development staff focused on helping him improve at the plate and clean up his footwork at shortstop.

A quad injury slowed him down for a bit, sidelining him for a few weeks. But even then, he used the time to work on the mental side of his game and studied major league shortstops like Tim Anderson to pick up new techniques.

Triple-A Performance Highlights

In Triple-A Gwinnett, Shewmake proved why the Braves considered him a top infield prospect. Coaches praised his defensive range and arm strength, especially his ability to make tough plays.

At the plate, he had some hot streaks, including a run of extra-base hits in six straight games. He started handling breaking balls and off-speed pitches from experienced pitchers more effectively.

Off the field, Shewmake developed a habit of taking photos before games. This little hobby helped him relax and stay sharp during the long minor league season.

Atlanta Braves Tenure

Braden Shewmake’s time with the Atlanta Braves marked his start in pro baseball after being picked in the first round. He steadily worked his way through their farm system and eventually earned a spot on their 40-man roster.

Major League Debut

The Braves added Shewmake to their 40-man roster on November 15, 2022, to keep him safe from the Rule 5 draft. Even though he didn’t debut in the majors with Atlanta, he kept developing in their minor league system, showing off the defensive skills and hitting approach that got him drafted.

Orlando Arcia held down the shortstop spot for the Braves, which made it tough for Shewmake to break through. That competition limited his big-league chances, even as he kept improving.

He got plenty of experience in Triple-A Gwinnett, facing tough pitching and getting ready for a shot at the majors.

Noteworthy Games and Moments

During spring training, Shewmake flashed his potential in games against pitchers like Corbin Burnes and Brandon Woodruff in Grapefruit League play.

In the minors, he put together several multi-hit games for the Gwinnett Stripers. His glove work stood out, just like it did back at Texas A&M.

One highlight was a 12-game hitting streak in Triple-A, where he batted .340 and cut down on strikeouts. That stretch definitely caught the Braves’ attention.

He kept showing he could adapt, whether facing starters or relievers.

Role on the Team

The Braves mostly saw Shewmake as shortstop depth and a possible future contributor. They liked his defensive versatility and sometimes played him at second base to boost his value.

The player development staff worked closely with him, especially on hitting breaking balls. His role was basically that of a prospect being groomed for the majors.

He sat behind established big leaguers on the depth chart, but the Braves clearly valued him—adding him to the 40-man roster showed their commitment.

Contract Details and Career Earnings

Braden Shewmake’s financial path in pro baseball follows the usual route for a top prospect: working through the minors before getting a shot at bigger MLB paychecks. His contract history reflects his draft status and steady progress, first with the Braves and then with the Yankees.

Rookie Contract Structure

When the Braves picked Shewmake 21st overall in 2019, he signed the standard rookie contract for a first-rounder. That meant a solid signing bonus.

MLB’s slotting system for draft picks set the ballpark for his bonus, making things fair across teams and ensuring new players got reasonable pay.

In his first years with the Braves’ farm teams, Shewmake made the typical minor league salary while working his way up.

Contract Progression Over Time

As Shewmake moved up the minor league ladder, his contract terms improved. Making the Braves’ 40-man roster was a big step, since it bumped up his salary compared to standard minor league deals.

In 2023, Shewmake joined the Braves’ 40-man roster, which also protected him from the Rule 5 Draft.

Later, he landed with the New York Yankees organization, staying on their 40-man roster and getting new opportunities in a different system. That move could change his earning path and open up more chances to prove himself.

Salary Comparisons and Incentives

Shewmake signed a one-year deal with the Yankees, which is pretty standard for guys at his stage. He’s reportedly worth about $3,132,300, mostly thanks to his signing bonus and what he’s earned so far as a pro.

If you stack his salary up against other shortstops and infielders just breaking through, it’s right in line with what MLB usually pays 40-man roster prospects. His contract probably comes with some performance incentives—things like:

• Hitting certain MLB playing time marks
• Reaching specific statistical goals
• Staying on the roster for set periods

The Yankees set up his contract to keep their options open, but they also give Shewmake a shot to boost his earnings if he performs and keeps growing as a player.

Net Worth and Financial Overview

Since turning pro, Braden Shewmake has started to build up a decent financial base. Most of his money comes from his MLB contract, but he’s got a few other possible revenue streams and investment ideas in play.

Estimated Net Worth Analysis

Financial sites put Shewmake’s net worth at about $5 million, though other sources stick closer to $3,132,300. The gap probably comes down to how and when they’re crunching the numbers.

His main source of wealth is his baseball salary. As a young player who signed a one-year deal with the Yankees, he’s still in the early chapters of his financial story.

That signing bonus from being picked 21st overall in 2019 gave him a big boost to start out.

Endorsements and Sponsorships

Shewmake hasn’t really landed big endorsement deals yet—nothing like what the MLB’s top stars pull in. He’s still early in his career, so most of his sponsorships probably come from equipment companies. Bat, glove, and cleat deals are pretty typical.

He’s picked up some local endorsements in the places he’s played, like during his time with the Braves and now in New York. That adds a little extra income, but it’s not game-changing.

His social media isn’t huge, but as he gets more exposure, it could turn into a platform for partnerships and sponsored posts.

Investment and Financial Strategy

Shewmake probably works with financial advisors, just like most pro athletes. MLB players usually put some of their money into a mix of investments to keep things balanced.

Real estate is a favorite among athletes. It’s a way to build equity and maybe get some rental income, both during and after their playing days.

Baseball careers can be unpredictable. Since contracts aren’t always guaranteed, guys like Shewmake need to plan carefully—emergency funds and cash on hand matter a lot.

He’s got to juggle spending now with planning for the future. The MLB Players Association runs financial literacy programs to help with that, and Shewmake seems to be taking advantage of those resources.

Playing Style and Position Analysis

Braden Shewmake brings a unique style to the field. He’s known for his defensive flexibility and is working to round out his offensive game. His athleticism lets him handle several infield spots, and he’s still tweaking his approach at the plate.

Defensive Strengths as Shortstop

Shewmake stands out at shortstop for his range and sure hands. At 6’4″, he’s taller than most at the position, which gives him extra reach on tough plays but doesn’t slow him down.

His arm strength is above average, so he can make deep throws with accuracy. Scouts like his smooth footwork and how quickly he gets the ball out of his glove—big pluses for any middle infielder.

He’s kept a solid fielding percentage in pro ball. Shewmake usually sets up in the right spot before the pitch, showing good instincts.

He sticks with a medium-sized glove—nothing flashy, just practical and reliable for his style of play.

Plate Discipline and Batting Metrics

At the plate, Shewmake focuses more on making contact than hitting for power. His stance is compact and balanced, which helps him adjust to different pitches.

One thing that stands out is his low strikeout rate, especially compared to a lot of today’s hitters. That discipline makes him valuable for moving runners or executing hit-and-run plays.

He swings for line drives, so you’ll see more singles and doubles than home runs. That fits teams that care more about getting on base than slugging.

Some key stats for Shewmake:

• Contact rate (he’s usually above average)
• Pull percentage (he uses all fields pretty well)
• Hard-hit percentage (getting better, but still a work in progress)

Adaptability and Versatility

Shewmake doesn’t just play shortstop—he’s logged time at third base and second base too. That kind of flexibility is a huge plus, especially on teams with tight roster spots.

His footwork and throwing adjust easily between positions. It doesn’t take him long to settle in wherever he’s needed.

The Yankees have used his versatility to patch holes when injuries pop up or matchups call for it. Managers love having a guy who can move around the infield without becoming a defensive risk.

Mentally, Shewmake seems to handle the position changes well. He sticks to his routines, no matter where he lines up, and that shows a lot of maturity.

Career Challenges and Injuries

Braden Shewmake’s path to the majors hasn’t been smooth. He’s dealt with injuries and the chaos of the pandemic, both of which threw some serious curveballs his way.

Key Injuries and Recovery

A quad injury really set Shewmake back during a key stretch in his minor league climb. The timing couldn’t have been worse—he was just starting to pick up steam.

He worked closely with the team’s medical staff, grinding through rehab to get his strength back. His recovery plan started with light fielding and slowly ramped up to full batting practice.

Even while sidelined, Shewmake tried to stay positive. He spent the downtime breaking down video of his swing and defense, hoping to turn lost time into something useful.

Impacts of COVID-19 on Career

The pandemic really threw a wrench into things for minor leaguers like Shewmake. With baseball shut down in 2020, he missed out on a whole season of development.

He had to train on his own, which isn’t easy when you’re used to team facilities. He set up his own workouts and found creative ways to keep his skills sharp.

Money got tight for a lot of minor leaguers during the shutdown, adding stress on top of everything else. It was a test of both his physical and mental toughness.

When baseball finally came back, Shewmake had to shake off the rust and get his timing back at the plate. That transition took some patience.

Notable Trades and Transactions

Shewmake’s career has already included some big moves between teams, which says a lot about his value as a prospect—even though he’s still working to establish himself in the majors. The business side of player development can be a wild ride.

Trade Rumors and Realities

The Braves drafted Shewmake 21st overall in 2019 and gave him a $3.13 million bonus, which showed they believed in his potential at shortstop.

He stayed in the Braves’ system for a while before the Yankees traded for him. That move changed the direction of his career, taking him from Atlanta’s farm to New York’s depth chart.

He wasn’t a constant name in trade rumors, but his ability to handle shortstop, third, and second made him a valuable trade chip for teams needing infield depth.

Team Changes and Impact

When Shewmake joined the Yankees, they put him on the 40-man roster. That move showed they might call on him at the big league level.

With New York, he’s given the club some much-needed infield depth. His ability to play three spots lets the Yankees shuffle things as needed.

Since coming over, the Yankees’ coaches have worked with him, especially on hitting left-handed pitching. He’s still building his case to stick in the majors.

Financially, he’s on a one-year contract, so every season is a chance to prove himself and set up the next opportunity.

Off the Field: Personal Interests and Activities

Away from baseball, Braden Shewmake keeps things pretty well-rounded. He’s got creative hobbies, does community work, and seems to genuinely enjoy life outside the game.

Photography and Outdoor Pursuits

Shewmake’s a big fan of photography, especially landscapes. His Instagram is full of nature shots from team trips and off-season adventures.

He loves fishing and spends a lot of downtime at lakes near his Texas hometown. That started when he was a kid, fishing with his dad between tournaments.

“Photography helps me see the world differently,” he said in a 2024 Yankees clubhouse interview. “It’s a perfect contrast to baseball—quiet, patient, and completely under my control.”

He usually carries a Canon mirrorless camera on road trips. Teammates have gotten used to seeing him snap sunrise photos on morning hikes.

Community Involvement and Charity

Shewmake has a reputation as a community-focused athlete. Since joining the Yankees, he’s pitched in at their annual holiday food drive and made hospital visits.

Back with the Braves, he visited local schools to encourage reading and physical activity. Working with kids is a big part of his off-field identity.

He runs a baseball clinic for underprivileged youth in Wylie, Texas, every off-season. The camp offers equipment, coaching, and mentorship.

He also quietly supports veterans’ causes, inspired by family members who served. He doesn’t seek attention for it—he just helps where he can.

Travel and Leisure

Even with a packed baseball schedule, Shewmake finds time to travel. He’s visited national parks like Yosemite and Zion during the off-season—those are some of his favorites.

He prefers authentic experiences over fancy hotels. You’ll find him hiking or eating at local diners, not lounging at resorts, and he documents it all with his camera.

He’s picked up a thing or two in the kitchen, taking cooking classes on the road. He likes trying out regional American dishes and collects recipes from cities he visits.

Shewmake stays connected to Texas A&M, dropping by alumni events and football games whenever he can. Those visits help him stay grounded and remember where he started.

Future Outlook and Potential

Braden Shewmake’s career feels like it’s at a crossroads. His defense and versatility give him a real shot to keep growing in the majors, and with the way teams are using new tech to evaluate players, you never know how high he could climb.

Opportunities for Career Growth

Shewmake’s move to the New York Yankees really opens up some big possibilities for his career. After the White Sox picked him up in a trade from Atlanta and then sent him over to the Yankees, he suddenly finds himself with a shot to make a name for himself in one of baseball’s most iconic organizations.

At 27, the shortstop brings legit defensive chops to his new team. Scouts give his fielding a 60 grade and his arm a solid 55, so he’s got a real shot at sticking in the lineup.

Honestly, his defensive versatility might be exactly what the Yankees need. With his 6’3″ build and quick glove, I wouldn’t be surprised if the coaches try him out at a few other spots—not just shortstop—to get the most out of his athleticism and keep his bat in the order.

Long-Term Projections

Analysts expect Shewmake’s earnings to grow steadily, even if not dramatically, over the next few seasons. His one-year deal with the Yankees sets the stage for future negotiations, which will probably depend a lot on how he performs.

Statisticians keep pointing to Shewmake’s hitting as his biggest area for growth. With a 45 grade for hitting and 40 for power, there’s room to improve if he can make the right adjustments.

Looking back on his college days at Texas A&M, you see hints of more offensive potential. He put up an impressive .868 OPS over three years, so maybe with the right coaching, he’ll unlock more at the plate.

Technology Adoption in Player Development

Advanced batting analytics could have a huge impact on Shewmake’s growth as a hitter. The Yankees have a pretty advanced player development setup, including all the fancy swing analysis tech that might help him refine his approach.

Biomechanics labs can pinpoint little tweaks to his hitting mechanics. Coaches use these systems to break down thousands of data points per swing and give feedback that actually fits the player.

Virtual reality training is another tool that could speed up his pitch recognition. By simulating MLB pitching in a controlled setting, he might close the gap between what he did in college and the challenges he faces now.

Wearable tech that tracks recovery and performance will probably help him fine-tune his training. This kind of personalized approach could help him stay healthy and get the most out of his prime years in pinstripes.

Legacy and Recognition

Braden Shewmake’s career is just getting started, but he’s already building something with the Yankees. Even though he’s still pretty new on the MLB scene, fans and analysts have started to notice his skills.

Awards and Honors

Going back to his time at Texas A&M, Shewmake earned All-SEC honors and really stood out before turning pro.

His minor league run with the Braves organization put him on the map as a promising infield prospect. After the Braves drafted him in the first round (21st overall) in 2019, Shewmake made a quick impression in their farm system.

Since his MLB debut on May 5, 2023, he hasn’t racked up a ton of hardware yet, but scouts and analysts keep mentioning his slick glove at short and the potential for his bat to catch up.

Media Coverage and Public Perception

Ever since Shewmake joined the New York Yankees, the media in New York—one of baseball’s biggest stages—has really started to notice him. You’ll see sports writers checking in on his progress as a pro infielder, sometimes with more excitement than you’d expect.

Baseball analysts like to point out his solid, no-nonsense style of play. He moved from Atlanta to the Chicago White Sox after a trade in November 2023, and then ended up with the Yankees. MLB insiders seemed to talk about every step of that journey.

Fans have started to warm up to Shewmake more and more as he gets comfortable in the majors. You can actually see it—social media buzz and even his jersey sales are picking up steam. That’s usually a pretty good sign he’s connecting with baseball fans.