May 22, 2023; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Texas Rangers starting pitcher Dane Dunning (33) delivers a pitch against the Pittsburgh Pirates during the first inning at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
Professional baseball pitcher Joe Barlow has been on a roller-coaster ride of a career journey, witnessing a series of transitions between 2021 and 2023. His promising start with the Texas Rangers in 2021, where he took over as a closer following a midseason trade and achieved 11 saves with a commendable 1.55 ERA, was followed by subsequent challenges.
Struggles and Setbacks
In 2022, while retaining his closer role, Barlow saw his ERA rise to 3.86. He grappled with persistent blisters, which led to repeated stints on the 15-day injured list. With the Rangers’ bullpen evolving under the stewardship of new manager Bruce Bochy in 2023, Barlow’s performance declined further. The result was a career-worst 4.66 ERA over 13 games.
Changes and Chances
Barlow was called up from Triple-A Round Rock in May, but a combination of illness and inconsistent performances led to his designation for assignment on July 30. The Kansas City Royals claimed Barlow off waivers in August, initially optioning him to Triple-A Omaha. However, he was again designated for assignment in September before being re-signed and sent back to Triple-A.
New Beginnings with the White Sox
Barlow became a free agent in November. The Chicago White Sox seized this opportunity, signing Barlow and assigning him to their Triple-A affiliate in Charlotte. This latest transition offers both the White Sox and Barlow strategic opportunities. Amidst significant turnover in their bullpen and potential openings for a new reliever to step in, Barlow’s signing is a potential solution to the team’s evolving bullpen needs. Moreover, it presents an opportunity for Barlow to revive his career at a crucial juncture.
Barlow’s journey so far has been marked by highs and lows, from his promising start with the Rangers to his struggles in subsequent seasons. As he embarks on this new chapter with the White Sox, the baseball world watches with anticipation. Whether this will be a turning point in his career, only time will tell. One thing is certain, though; this is not the end of the road for Joe Barlow.
