Former MLB all-star hitter is attempting a comeback as a pitcher

Feb 16, 2026 - 00:00

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Former MLB all-star hitter is attempting a comeback as a pitcher

Few stories in recent baseball history have been as unexpected or captivating as the one unfolding around Joey Gallo, the veteran slugger and former star who’s attempting a comeback to the big leagues in a role few envisioned: as a pitcher.

Gallo, a two-time All-Star and two-time Gold Glove winner best known for his prodigious power and towering home runs over a decade-long MLB career, is taking an unconventional path back to baseball’s highest level. After struggling as a hitter late in his career and bouncing between several teams, he has turned his focus to the mound in hopes of carving out a new chapter for himself in 2026.

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A Career at the Plate That Needed Reinvention

Jul 27, 2021; Arlington, Texas, USA; Texas Rangers right fielder Joey Gallo (13) hits a three run home run in the fourth inning against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Globe Life Field. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports

Drafted by the Texas Rangers in 2012, Gallo built a reputation as one of the game’s most feared home-run hitters, posting back-to-back 40-plus homer seasons in 2017 and 2018. But his offensive contributions came with a high cost: Gallo struck out at one of the highest rates in baseball and finished his career with a batting average well below the league average.

As his defensive versatility diminished and offensive struggles mounted, he cycled through the New York Yankees, Los Angeles Dodgers, Minnesota Twins, and Washington Nationals before hitting free agency.

In 2025, Gallo signed a minor-league deal with the Chicago White Sox, only to be released after he revealed his intention to transition to pitching — a move that stunned fans and analysts alike but also showed his determination to stay in the game.

Arm Strength Provides the Spark

Mar 11, 2025; Peoria, Arizona, USA; Chicago White Sox infielder Joey Gallo against the San Diego Padres during a spring training game at Peoria Sports Complex. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

One of the key reasons teams have taken note of Gallo’s transformation is his incredible arm strength. Throughout his career as an outfielder, he consistently ranked among the hardest throwers in MLB. His outfield throws clocked in the mid-90s and were well above average. That raw arm talent provides a foundation for his attempt to become a pitcher. That is something very few position players ever contemplate at the major-league level.

Since announcing his intentions to switch roles, Gallo has been working on his delivery, mechanics, and pitch development. He has posted videos of bullpen sessions and workouts on social media, showcasing not just arm strength but a willingness to retool his entire approach to the game.

Interest from MLB Clubs

Sep 28, 2024; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Washington Nationals first base Joey Gallo (24) hits a three run home run against the Philadelphia Phillies during the eighth inning at Nationals Park. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

What once seemed like an off-the-wall experiment has slowly gained traction. Reports from MLB insiders indicate that multiple teams have shown legitimate interest in evaluating Gallo on the mound. With spring training workouts already underway, Gallo has begun throwing for interested clubs in Florida. Scouts are watching closely to see how his pitches — reportedly reaching into the low-to-mid-90s — play in live settings.

This kind of curiosity isn’t unprecedented — former hitters like Anthony Gose and Tyler Naquin have pursued pitching conversions. There have been varying degrees of success in recent years, of course. Gallo’s case is still remarkable because of how firmly established he was as a slugger.