It’s pretty interesting when an outfielder decides that they want to convert to a pitcher. One example of this is Sean Doolittle from the Oakland A’s, who did well throughout his MLB career with a record of W12-L13, 3.07 ERA, 269 strikeouts, and a total of 33 saves. Another example is Kenley Jansen from the LA Dodger’s. Throughout his MLB career, he had a record of W19-L13, 2.20 ERA, 632 strikeouts, and a total of 189 saves.

And now, we move on to the most recent example, Anthony Gose. On Sunday March 26, he was assigned to the minor league, where he decided to become a pitcher.

The 26-year-old has played in the MLB for five years. He made his MLB debut on July 17, 2012 with the Toronto Blue Jays. He played for the Blue Jays from 2012 to 2014. After that, on Nov. 12, 2014, he was traded to the Detroit Tigers. In his 2015 season with the Tigers, he had a .254 average and 74 RBI’s as a starting centerfielder.

Gose’s 2016 season did not go too well; he had an average of .209, two HR’s, and seven RBI’s while having 91 at-bats. On July 8, 2016, there was a dugout altercation between Triple A manager Lloyd McClendon and Gose. Gose felt like he was criticized by McClendon’s statement regarding Gose’s performance.

Clearly, Gose took these statements to heart. Gose refused to show up the next game.

Soon after, the decision was made. Gose was going to go to the Double A league with a three-day suspension. It was a way for Gose to refresh and work on his performance.

Gose is going to be an amazing pitcher for Detroit, without a doubt. He was known for throwing high 90-mph pitches when he was in high school. When Gose played baseball in his senior year of high school, he was a beast. He had a .443 batting average, 31 stolen bases, and a .618 on-base percentage. He was quick due to all of the years he played track and field; he was known for his skills at running in the 100- and 200-meter races.

Being a left-handed pitcher is also a plus. Back in the day, MLB scouts told Gose that he should seriously consider being a pitcher, but Gose wanted to keep pitching as his backup and just play outfield. Being a lefty is beneficial because it means being closer to first base, and it is easier to get someone out. Most baseball stadiums were built specifically for right-handed batters. But if a left-handed batter comes up to the plate, the right field becomes much shorter.

Gose was the one who went to the Tigers to ask about becoming a pitcher, so he meant it. And so far, it looks like he will be successful at it. He’s young and he’s motivated. The Tigers can easily replace Gose’s spot with another center fielder.
Having an amazing left-handed pitcher is golden. I believe it is a great idea for baseball players to have the option to change particular positions, especially if they are better at it. I wish nothing but good luck for Gose!