While the Los Angeles Dodgers remain connected to some of the biggest free agents this offseason, they recently added to their potential bullpen depth with the signing of Giovanny Gallegos to a Minor League contract.
The right-hander is coming off a down season with the St. Louis Cardinals that resulted in being designated for assignment and released in August. He went 2-1 with one save, a 6.53 ERA, 6.34 FIP and 1.65 WHIP across 21 appearances.
Gallegos also struggled during the 2023 season, but he was a key contributor for the Cardinals earlier in his career. From 2019-2022, he posted a 2.84 ERA, 2.83 FIP, 0.89 WHIP and 11.1 strikeouts per nine in 212 games.
Gallegos’ contract with the Dodgers reportedly includes incentives and multiple opt-out dates, via Steve Adams of MLB Trade Rumors:
Gallegos would earn a $2.5M base salary for making the big league roster with another $1.5M available in incentives. Contract also includes three opt out dates..
He has spent the offseason working to correct lower half mechanics and has regained a couple ticks on his fastball https://t.co/BjrsZMCS8A
— Steve Adams (@Adams_Steve) November 23, 2024
The Dodgers don’t face any immediate pressure to make a decision on Gallegos’ outlook for the 2025 season, but that time will come due to his opt outs.
A strong showing during Spring Training could lead to the 33-year-old earning a spot on the team’s Opening Day roster as their bullpen is currently without Daniel Hudson, Blake Treinen and Joe Kelly.
Hudson retired while Treinen and Kelly are both free agents. Furthermore, Brusdar Graterol will miss at least the first four months of the 2025 season while he recovers from right shoulder surgery.
In addition to Gallegos, the Dodgers have signed Joe Jacques, Justin Jarvis and former top prospect Aaron Bracho to Minor League contracts so far this offseason.
Giovanny Gallegos’ fastball velocity
Gallegos has reportedly added some life to his fastball after making mechanical adjustments this offseason.
Gallegos’ average fastball velocity was 92.2 mph during the 2024 season, down from 93.7 mph the previous year and a career-best 94.4 in 2021.
The Dodgers have a history of helping pitchers return to form and hope Gallegos becomes the latest success story.
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