Joey Gallo Transitions to Pitcher After White Sox Release

Joey Gallo, the former Yankees outfielder, has announced a surprising career shift from his position as a player to pursue pitching, following his release from the Chicago White Sox. He confirmed this decision on social media, stating, "Just to be clear, I will be pitching," after showcasing highlights from his outfield career. Gallo's transition comes after a challenging period in which he struggled offensively, recording only two hits in 20 at-bats during spring training and a disappointing .161 batting average last season with the Nationals. Managers and analysts have expressed shock and curiosity regarding his decision, acknowledging his strong arm which previously earned him two Gold Glove Awards. Gallo's move echoes a growing trend of former outfielders attempting to reinvent themselves on the mound, similar to other players like Anthony Gose. Despite his past successes as a slugger, including two All-Star selections, Gallo's recent performance has sparked discussions about his future in baseball.