Shoemaker gets nod for opener vs. Phillies

TORONTO -- Matt Shoemaker will take the mound against the Phillies in Philadelphia on Tuesday, manager Mike Scioscia told reporters prior to Monday's game.

Hector Santiago was originally slated to get the ball at Citizens Bank Park, but he was removed from the rotation this week after seven starts and will pitch out of the bullpen. Santiago is 0-6 with a 5.19 ERA.

Shoemaker will now audition for the vacant spot. The 27-year-old is 1-0 with a 6.31 ERA in five Minor League starts with Triple-A Salt Lake this season. No corresponding roster move was announced

"I think Matt will be valuable," Scioscia said. "He's been throwing the ball well his last couple of outings down there and hopefully he'll come in here and give us the game we need. Obviously there's a void in our rotation that we need filled and we'll see how Matt does."

Shoemaker made three relief appearances for the Angels this season, pitching 6 2/3 innings over three appearances for a 4.05 ERA.