Joey Gallo
What to like
Two words describe Joey Gallo: Unparalleled power. Gallo’s gallant power is well-publicized; it has been his mantra ever since he was drafted. He’s played only one full MLB season, but his power is undeniable, and I feel confident in saying that he has the potential to be one of the greatest power hitters in the history of the game.
Gallo hit 41 home runs in 145 games last season. He ranked fifth in MLB in long balls. Aaron Judge’s power stole the show last season, but Joey Gallo was not too far behind. Gallo to Judge is an excellent comparison in my opinion. Each possesses sensational pop, while each struggle immensely with strikeouts. The difference between the two to date: Judge experienced a season of MVP consideration, while Gallo was merely a cool highlight reel and was consumed by fans as a fraction of what he truly is.
The point is, if Aaron Judge can break the scene and finish second in AL MVP voting, Joey Gallo has that same capability. Both Judge and Gallo should be an exhilarating watch in 2018, individually and comparatively.
What he needs to prove in 2018
It may not be wise to mention MVP and Joey Gallo in the same sentence. The Texas Rangers would obviously love an MVP run from Gallo; however, they have their sights set on smaller accomplishments first.
The huge knock on Gallo is his proneness to the strikeout. Gallo struck out 196 times in 449 at-bats in 2017. He fanned in 44% of at-bats. That is not good.
Gallo must cut down on the strikeouts in the upcoming season. More contact equals more hits, and more hits equal a higher batting average, a higher on-base percentage, more runs, more RBI, etc. If Gallo can increase his batting average from .209 to even .240, then the Rangers will be ecstatic.
Improved contact from Joey Gallo is the offseason priority, and it will remain a priority until he gets it right. The MLB has enough all-or-nothing hitters. The power will come naturally for Gallo, but if he wants to take the next step, he’ll need to cut down on the strikeouts and put the ball in play.