Breaking News: Nationals confirm the return of another top experienced star

The Washington Nationals have activated veteran first baseman/outfielder Joey Gallo from the 10-day disabled list. The 30-year-old has been absent since the middle of June after suffering a left hamstring injury on June 11. This is one of several roster changes announced today by Nationals President of Baseball Operations and General Manager Mike Rizzo. Gallo will not be in the starting lineup for Tuesday’s home game against the Colorado Rockies, but he may get some action off the bench.

Nationals Slugger Joey Gallo Activated from IL

The Nationals made the following roster moves on Tuesday:

· Returned from rehab/reinstated 1B/OF Joey Gallo (10-day IL)
· Reinstated LHP Robert Garcia (Bereavement List)
· Optioned OF/DH Travis Blankenhorn to Triple-A
· Optioned RHP Orlando Ribalta to Triple-A

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— Washington Nationals (@Nationals) August 20, 2024

Before his hamstring injury, veteran Joey Gallo was struggling significantly in his first season with the Washington Nationals. He posted a disappointing .164 batting average, going 23-for-140 with just five home runs, 11 RBI, and a .606 OPS. Gallo also struck out 71 times in 2024, indicating a decline in his power-hitting ability compared to his performance with the Texas Rangers from 2019 to 2021. Earlier this season, he was placed on the injured list on April 27 due to a right shoulder sprain and missed 17 games.

 

 

During his recent rehab assignment with the Triple-A Rochester Red Wings, Gallo played 11 games, hitting .206 with a 7-for-34 record. He contributed three home runs, eight RBI, 11 walks, and nine runs. In this stint, he played four games in right field, five as the designated hitter, and one at first base. Given Gallo’s struggles this season and his one-year, $5 million contract, it’s uncertain whether he will remain with the Nationals beyond 2024.

Gallo’s career has largely been defined by his time with the Texas Rangers from 2015 to 2021, with brief periods at the New York Yankees (2021-2022), Los Angeles Dodgers (2022), and Minnesota Twins (2023).