The thing that so many Texas Rangers fans feared has happened. On Wednesday night, the Rangers traded outfielder Joey Gallo to the New York Yankees. Everyone could sense something was in the works when they learned that Gallo was scratched from Wednesday’s starting lineup against the Arizona Diamondbacks. It was for a “non-medical issue”. The news broke that the trade was being finalized just prior to first pitch at Globe Life Field. It’s the end of an era in Arlington. After the departure of shortstop Elvis Andrus over the winter, Gallo became the Rangers’ longest-tenured player. The fans will definitely miss him, and his power bat.
Headed to Arlington
The Rangers will be getting a handful of prospects from the trade for Gallo. They’ll be getting shortstop Josh Smith. He’s the Yankees’ No. 14 prospect per MLB Pipeline. They’ll also receive second baseman Ezequiel Duran, their No. 15 prospect, and second baseman/outfielder Trevor Hauver (No. 23). Finally they’ll get right-hander Glenn Otto (No. 28). The Rangers will also pay most of remaining Gallo’s salary in 2021. That translates into $2.2 million.
Meanwhile in New York
Along with Gallo, the Yankees will also be getting lefty Joely Rodriguez. Texas will be sending along the $900,000 that is owed to Rodriguez. That leaves the Yankees about $4 million below the competitive Balance Tax threshold to make another move prior to Friday’s Trade Deadline. This will come in handy as they also have another deal in place. That would be for Chicago Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo. The Yankees are very excited about Gallo. The 27-year-old outfielder is tied for fifth in the American League. He is also tied for sixth in the Majors with 25 home runs. He is batting .223/.379/.490 with 57 runs, six doubles, a triple, 55 RBIs, an .869 OPS and a Major League-leading 74 walks. Gallo’s 125 strikeouts are third in the Majors. Fans may not like it, but life goes on. They’ll eventually come to terms with the Rangers trade of Joey Gallo.
Players Mentioned: Joey Gallo, Elvis Andrus, Josh Smith, Ezequiel Duran, Trevor Hauver, Glenn Otto, Joely Rodriguez, Anthony Rizzo
Main Photo: Embed from Getty Images
