Why Did Former MLB Outfielder Carlos Gomez Trade the Diamond for the Velodrome?

The Olympics remain witness to some of the unique stories. Oftentimes we get to hear tales that make us gasp in awe and develop an entirely different perception of the sport. Likewise, the tale of this 38-year-old former MLB star is sure to make us rethink about the extent an athlete can go to fulfill his aspirations. After being an established MLB star, he is now on a mission to live his Olympic dreams. 

Getting a shot at the MLB is something that every baseball enthusiast dreams of. However, even after having significant success at the top level, some people seem to be unsatisfied. Likewise, this ex-Mets star is now gearing up with his bike for a glorious joyride at the Paris Olympics in 2024. 

Former Mets star eyes cycling berth at Paris Olympics

Carlos Gomez was a sensation back in his playing days. He played as a center midfielder and was well known for his blazing speed. Now, after he has hung up his MLB bats, Gomez apparently wants to be thrilled even more by speed! According to recent updates, the 38-year-old is now trying to book himself an Olympic berth while competing in 500-m Veltrack cycling. The report was disclosed by a journalist from The Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel, Todd Rosiack. 

Rosiack posted on X that Gomez is training to participate in a qualifier for cycling in May. This will be a golden opportunity for Gomez to make an impact and achieve his dreams of representing the Dominican Republic in Paris. If Gomez manages to qualify, he will have his name etched in the history books. Previously, only Diego Milan had the honor of qualifying for the Olympics from the Dominican Republic back in 2016. 

Working towards his goal, Gomez is reportedly maintaining an intake of 7000 calories to maintain his body weight. He will be battling it out in the ‘Masters’ category that includes athletes in the age range of 33-40. He also tried his hands in MMA, after a stiff neck forced him to switch to cycling. As mesmerizing as the prospect of Gomez excelling in two disciplines is, he was touted as one of the best MLB prospects. Let’s now take a look at Gomez’s MLB accolades. 

Carlos Gomez: A knight in shining MLB armor

Standing at 6’3”, Gomez made his MLB debut in 2007. He joined the Mets for a solitary season, after which, he switched to the Minnesota Twins. During the entirety of his career, the 38-year-old played a total of 13 seasons for 6 different teams. He donned the jerseys of the Tampa Bay Rays, Houston Astros, New York Mets, Texas Rangers, Minnesota Twins, and Milwaukee Brewers. 

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Speaking of his accolades, Gomez has a lot to boast about. He got inducted to the MLB All-Star twice while clinching the Golden Gloves once. While playing for the Brewers, Gomez scored an identical .284 in consecutive seasons to mark his dominance. Now, with rejuvenated zeal and eyes set high, the day of Olympic reckoning awaits Carlos Gomez. 

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