Gallo produced an epic pregame B.P. performance in which he broke a truck window out on the right field pavilion and almost hit the Target Center Arena across the street. He then smashed a 420-foot, game-winning home run in the sixth inning and took home the MVP award.
MORE FUTURES GAME:Best Bats | Best Arms
Gallo has the best pure power in the minors and displays almost inhuman bat speed. His contact rate – 113 strikeouts in 290 at-bats this season between High-A and Double-A – is a real concern and he showed his swing-and-miss tendencies early in the game by fanning in his first two at-bats.
However, given his elite bat speed, I think that Gallo should be able to cut down on the whiffs. More experience should result in better pitch recognition and more contact. Also, while his swing is a bit long, I didn’t see any gaping holes. Most importantly, Gallo is only 20 years old and has plenty of time to mature as a hitter.
Given his success this season, the Rangers might be tempted to rush him to the majors, but they’ll be better off if they give Gallo more time to develop. Expect a long look in spring training next year, followed by a midseason call-up.
MORE PROSPECTS: Midseason Top 25 | Moving up | Moving down
