Former Madera Coyote and Fresno City College pitching standout Alec Gamboa received his third call-up to the Boston Red Sox.
The benefit to this call-up is the Red Sox were in Anaheim for a three-game series with the Los Angeles Angels, and many of Gamboa’s family and friends made the trip down south to celebrate the Fourth of July with him.
To make it even more special, the Red Sox were on its way to an 8-1 victory over the Angels on July 4, and who came out of the bullpen to sew up the victory. No. 68, from Madera trotted in from the left-centerfield bullpen to close out the game. He tossed perfect ninth inning, including getting his first fielding chance of the season, and turning it into an out, to help the Red Sox pick up the win.
Gamboa was initially called up on July 1, and immediately went into action during a home loss to Washington. He allowed his first runs of the season in 2 1/3 innings. He allowed two runs on three hits with four walks and a strikeout. He also allowed his first Major League home run, a three-run shot to National League All-Star James Wood.
Gamboa was called up after left-handed pitcher Connelly Early was placed on the 15-day injured list. It was his third call-up this season, but his first with more than one outing for the big club.
He was called up May 4, and made his Major League debut before getting sent down two days later.
He received his second call-up on June 6, and was sent down June 10. Hopefully this will be a longer stint.
This season, Gamboa holds a 3.60 ERA in four appearances, all in relief. He has allowed two runs on three hits over five innings. He has four strikeouts and four walks while holding opponents to a .188 batting average.