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Texas Rangers to get first look at Joey Gallo trade return

By David Hill

Mar 1, 2021; Tampa, FL, USA; New York Yankees Glenn Otto (96) poses during media day at Steinbrenner Field. Mandatory Credit: MLB Photos via USA Today Sports
Mar 1, 2021; Tampa, FL, USA; New York Yankees Glenn Otto (96) poses during media day at Steinbrenner Field. Mandatory Credit: MLB Photos via USA Today Sports /
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The Texas Rangers were universally panned for their return for Joey Gallo. The New York Yankees did not part with any of their top prospects, sending a package of A-ball players and a Triple-A arm to Texas for the powerful slugger. However, as is the case with any trade involving prospects, the full return will not be known for years.

But the Rangers are getting their first chance to look at their return. Glenn Otto, one of the players that Texas received for Gallo, is set to make his major league debut on Friday.

Texas Rangers get first look at Joey Gallo return

Otto certainly deserves this look. Between Double-A and Triple-A, he has posted a solid 3.20 ERA and a 1.014 WHiP over his 95.2 innings, striking out 134 batters with 24 walks. He has taken a major step forward this season after having most of the past two years ruined due to surgery and the pandemic.

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A large part of that progression has been due to a new slider. Otto now has a second out pitch to pair with his plus curve, finally giving him that viable third pitch he needed to remain in the rotation. His fastball sits in the mid 90s, but he spots it well with his curve and slider. Otto also has a changeup, but it needs a great deal of work and may be worth scrapping now that the slider has become such a weapon.

The Rangers are throwing Otto right into the fire on Friday. He will be making his debut against the Astros, the team that leads the American League in runs, batting average, on base percentage, and OPS. His major league debut will a true test.

But it is one that the Rangers need to have. The pitching staff has been decimated by COVID, and they need arms. Otto has definitely earned this opportunity, and it is a chance for the Rangers to see if he can be a part of their future rotation. Being sent out against arguably the top team in the AL is a great way to find out.

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The Texas Rangers are getting their first look at their return from the Joey Gallo trade. Glenn Otto is getting a chance to show what he can do.

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