Interview conducted by David Saltzer, AngelsWin.com Senior Writer -
Drafted in the second round of the 2014 draft out of St. Augustine Prep in New Jersey, Joe Gatto has been a rising pitching star in the Angels organization. After gaining some professional experience in Arizona in 2014, Gatto opened the 2015 season in Orem as a 20 year-old. Although he is one of the younger players in the league, that hasn’t stop him from being named a Pioneer League All-Star. You can read about him being named to the All-Star Game here and see the box score, where he pitched a scoreless inning, here.
As a starter, Gatto throws a fastball, curve, and changeup combination. His fastball sits in the low 90s, but he can dial it up to the mid-90s when he needs to. He gets good movement on his fastball, and with his 6’3” frame, throws it with a good, downward angle. His changeup has improved this year, and is developing into a plus pitch, as is his curve. Gatto’s command this year has been impressive, with an 30:11 K:BB ratio in 39.1 IP.
Overall, Gatto has the chance to develop into a dominant starter for the Angels. He has a strong, durable frame that can rack up the innings, and the mental fortitude to battle on the mound. He throws strikes and attacks hitters. As he develops, he will become a top-end starter.
Please click here to listen to our interview with Joe Gatto.