Carlos Gomez, former MLB outfielder, is making waves in a new arena – track cycling. Gomez, who hit for the cycle twice during his MLB career, is now attempting to qualify for the 2024 Olympic track cycling team. This surprising career shift has caught the attention of many, including Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reporter Todd Rosiak.
According to Rosiak, Gomez needs to win a race in May to secure a spot on the Olympic team. If successful, Gomez would represent the Dominican Republic in the 500-meter race, a feat that would make history for the country. The Dominican Republic has only had one cyclist compete in the Olympics before, so Gomez’s potential participation is a significant achievement.
To prepare for this new athletic endeavor, Gomez has been consuming a staggering 7,000 calories daily to combat the weight loss caused by his intense training regimen. Rosiak also highlighted Gomez’s exceptional sprinting abilities, noting that he outmatches his competitors due to his powerful lower body.
Gomez’s transition from baseball to track cycling is not his first attempt at exploring different sports. Previously, he trained for MMA but had to abandon the pursuit due to a neck injury. Additionally, Gomez has a background in judo from his upbringing.
During his 13-year MLB career, Gomez played for various teams, with six seasons spent with the Milwaukee Brewers. Known for his speed on the basepaths, Gomez accumulated 268 stolen bases and earned two All-Star appearances and a Gold Glove. Now, he is embarking on a new chapter in his athletic journey, aiming to make a mark in the world of track cycling.
Gomez’s determination and versatility are evident in his willingness to embrace new challenges and strive for excellence in different sports. As he sets his sights on Olympic qualification, fans and observers are eager to see how this former MLB star fares in his pursuit of cycling glory.