GLENDALE, Ariz. — In a surprising turn of events, Joey Gallo is considering a new direction in his baseball career following his release from the Chicago White Sox. The former All-Star and renowned outfielder is exploring the possibility of pitching.
During spring training in the Cactus League, Gallo struggled at the plate, managing just 2 hits in 20 at-bats and striking out 11 times. This performance led to his release by the White Sox, where he had been playing on a minor league deal as a first baseman and outfielder. Shortly after the announcement of his release, Gallo took to social media to express that his days in the outfield are behind him and he is now shifting his focus to becoming a pitcher.
White Sox manager Will Venable conveyed that the decision was mutual, emphasizing that it was deemed the best course of action for Gallo. “Just talking to Joey and discussing this morning, we both agreed this was the right move,” Venable stated, wishing Gallo success in his new endeavor.
Adding to the team’s roster updates, Chicago declared that Sean Burke will commence the March 27 home opener against the Los Angeles Angels. Burke, a promising 25-year-old right-hander, made a notable debut in the major leagues last September with a 2-0 record and a remarkable 1.42 ERA over three starts and one relief appearance.
Gallo’s tenure with Washington last season saw him hit .161, with 10 home runs, 27 RBIs, and accruing 102 strikeouts over 223 at-bats. The Nationals also opted not to exercise his $8 million mutual option in November, potentially pushing Gallo towards redefining his skill set. Over the course of his 10-year major league career, Gallo has amassed a .194 batting average, hitting 208 home runs, driving in 453 RBIs, and striking out 1,292 times in 2,869 at-bats. His career includes stints with Texas, the New York Yankees, Los Angeles Dodgers, Minnesota, and the Nationals.
In other team news, the White Sox announced an injury to one of their up-and-coming talents, Mason Adams. The 25-year-old pitcher, selected in the 13th round of the 2022 draft, has been diagnosed with a flexor strain in his right elbow. This came after he pitched just 1 1/3 innings against Cincinnati before exiting due to discomfort in his elbow.
