Baseball fans recognize Joey Gallo as a high-risk, high-reward slugger with immense power and a rocket for an arm. However, in true Gallo fashion, the former Yankees and Rangers outfielder has thrown us a curveball—he’s now setting his sights on pitching.
That’s right. The two-time All-Star, famous for crushing home runs and racking up strikeouts, announced his decision to transition to the mound following his release from the Chicago White Sox. At 30 years old (born November 19, 1993), Gallo has experienced nearly everything the game has to offer, but even for him, this career shift comes as a shock.
Struggles in Chicago and a Pivotal Decision
Gallo’s stint with the White Sox was far from a redemption story. Over nine Cactus League games, he managed just two hits in 20 at-bats, striking out 11 times—further cementing his reputation as one of baseball’s most strikeout-prone hitters.
Chicago, coming off one of the most challenging seasons in recent MLB history, was looking for a spark. But with Gallo failing to earn a roster spot despite signing a minor league deal, his fate seemed inevitable. On Sunday, the White Sox officially released him. However, instead of fading into the background, Gallo took to social media with a surprising announcement—his days as an outfielder and power hitter were over. Now, he’s ready to take on a new challenge: pitching.
A Bold but Logical Transition
It’s a daring move, but given his reputation for a “plus” throwing arm, it might not be as far-fetched as it seems. Gallo’s cannon from right field was well-known—Yankee Stadium fans witnessed him gun down runners at third base and home plate on multiple occasions. Now, he’s looking to translate that arm strength to the mound.
The Gallo Story: Power, Strikeouts, and Flashes of Brilliance
Joey Gallo’s career has always been one of extremes. Over his 10 years in the majors, he has been both a fan favorite and a source of frustration. His .194 career batting average is glaring, but so are his 208 home runs. That stat line perfectly encapsulates Gallo—jaw-dropping power accompanied by an unprecedented amount of swing-and-miss.
A Career Defined by Extremes
To put things into perspective, Gallo has struck out 1,292 times in 2,869 career at-bats. Yet, despite his high strikeout rate, he has remained a notable figure in baseball, thanks to his Gold Glove-caliber defense and his ability to launch home runs that seem to defy gravity.
The left-handed slugger made his MLB debut with the Texas Rangers in 2015 and quickly became a key part of their lineup. He earned All-Star honors twice (in 2019 and 2021) and secured two Gold Gloves, proving his value beyond just power hitting. His ability to change games with both his bat and his glove kept him in the spotlight, even as his contact issues frustrated fans.
In 2021, the New York Yankees took a chance on Gallo, hoping his power would thrive in the Bronx. While he crushed 38 home runs that season, he also led the majors with 213 strikeouts and finished with a .199 batting average, testing the patience of Yankees fans. His struggles carried into 2022 before he was traded to the Dodgers. From there, his journey took him through Minnesota, Washington, and most recently, a short stint in Chicago.
Family Life: Love, Headlines, and Baby Capulet
Off the field, Gallo’s life has been just as eventful. He is married to Hayden Hopkins, a 27-year-old professional dancer, model, and Cirque du Soleil performer. In October 2024, the couple welcomed their first child, a daughter named Capulet Lilac Gallo. Hopkins shared the joyful news on social media, posting a heartwarming photo of their newborn dressed in a white crocheted outfit with purple bows.
“Capulet Lilac Gallo. Heaven on earth, arrived a few days ago,” Hopkins wrote, capturing the hearts of fans.
Earlier in 2024, their pregnancy announcement made headlines, extending beyond the baseball world. Hopkins had previously been linked—albeit falsely—to Las Vegas Raiders owner Mark Davis after being spotted next to him at an NFL game in 2022. She quickly shut down the rumors, clarifying that she and Davis were just friends. It was later confirmed that Gallo was the father of Capulet, with reports noting the pregnancy was planned.
Despite the occasional tabloid drama, Gallo and Hopkins have kept their relationship relatively private, focusing on their family and careers.
What’s Next for Gallo?
Gallo’s transition to pitching is uncharted territory. While position players occasionally make the switch, it’s rare—especially this deep into a career. His arm strength has always been a defining trait, but transitioning from firing bullets from right field to pitching against MLB hitters is a completely different challenge.
For now, Gallo appears committed to the move, and given his competitiveness and athleticism, teams may be willing to give him a shot. Whether it’s with an independent league team, a minor league contract, or even an opportunity overseas, his next chapter has fans and scouts intrigued.
Net Worth and Career Earnings
As of 2025, Joey Gallo’s net worth is estimated at around $12 million. While not among the highest in MLB, it reflects his years of service and several multi-million-dollar contracts. Most recently, his $8 million mutual option with the Washington Nationals was declined following a tough 2023 season, where he hit .161 with 10 home runs and 27 RBIs.
A Career Unlike Any Other
In a sport where consistency is key, Joey Gallo’s career has been anything but predictable. He’s the player who can crush a 500-foot home run yet strike out three times in the same game. He’s been an All-Star, a Gold Glove winner, a fan favorite, and at times, a lightning rod for criticism.
Now, as he embarks on an entirely new journey as a pitcher, Gallo is adding another unpredictable twist to his baseball story. And with his track record of surprises, fans wouldn’t expect anything less.
Whether he’s delivering fastballs or launching towering home runs, one thing is certain—Joey Gallo always finds a way to stay in the spotlight.
