Joey Gallo, released by White Sox, says he's converting to pitcher

Field Level Media|published: Sun 16th March, 14:57 2025

MLB: Spring Training-Chicago White Sox at San Diego Padres

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

The Chicago White Sox granted outfielder-first baseman Joey Gallo his unconditional release on Sunday, and he announced on social media that he intends to continue his career as a pitcher.

Gallo signed a minor league deal with an invitation to Chicago's spring training on Feb. 15.

The 31-year old hit .100 (2 for 20) with 11 strikeouts in nine games this spring.

If Gallo is serious about transitioning to pitching, he now is free to look for a team that wants to develop him on the mound. He was a pitcher in high school but is not believed to have pro experience.

It's been fun outfield. ??? pic.twitter.com/Xck4WON6SB
— Joey Gallo (@JoeyGallo24) March 16, 2025

Gallo, a two-time All-Star and double Gold Glove winner, has had trouble at the plate since hitting .253 with the Texas Rangers in 2019, batting less than .200 in every season since.

The Rangers sent him to the New York Yankees at the trade deadline in 2021, and he's since played single seasons with the Los Angeles Dodgers, Minnesota Twins and Washington Nationals.

Last season in Washington, Gallo played in 76 games and hit .161 with 10 homers and 27 RBIs. He struck out 102 times in 223 at-bats.

--Field Level Media