Peoria\'s Gallagher dominating Midwest League
by Scott Coolbaugh
May 23, 2005 - Midwest League (MWL1)
Peoria Chiefs
Forty and one-third innings. That's how long it took before Peoria Chiefs right-hander Sean Gallagher allowed an earned run. The 19 year-old Ft. Lauderdale native has been nearly perfect during his first season with the Peoria Chiefs in the Midwest League (A).
"He's easily the best pitcher I've seen here at Peoria," said Chiefs Media Manager Nathan Baliva. "Sean can take over a game and give you six to seven no-hit innings at any given time."
Dominating games is exactly what Gallagher has done. Through nine starts, he is 4-1 and averages over one strikeout per inning. With a devastating one-two punch, Gallagher utilizes a low 90's fastball and a wicked 12 to 6 curve. Chiefs pitching coaches are also working on adding a changeup and cutter to Gallagher's repertoire.
"Sean is fearless when he takes the mound," Baliva said. "He's not afraid of anyone."
Sunday's game against the Dayton Dragons was Sean's worst of the year, as he gave up three runs in five innings to raise his ERA up to a whopping 0.83 through 54 innings. The Chiefs got the last laugh however, with a game-winning RBI single by Drew Larsen in the 9th frame. The win gives Peoria an 8-1 record when Gallagher steps onto the mound.
Originally committed to Florida International, Gallagher and his agent worked out a deal with the Chicago Cubs after he was drafted in the 12th round. Because of his low draft position and a Cubs farm system loaded with top pitching, Gallagher flew underneath the radar coming into this season. Now, he is currently among the Midwest League leaders in virtually every pitching category.
The future is also looking bright for Peoria fans as the Cubs are known to take a more conservative stance when it comes to moving up its prospects.
"Chicago usually likes to keep a player on the same team for the entire year," pointed out Baliva. "I know it's selfish for me to say, but I hope Sean stays here for the whole season. He's fun to watch."
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- Peoria's Gallagher dominating Midwest League - OSC Original by Scott Coolbaugh
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The opinions expressed in this article are those of the writer(s), and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.
