Converted pitcher Gose to display 'curveball from hell' in Astros debut

Anthony Gose will make his spring-training pitching debut for the Houston Astros on Saturday, and the ex-outfielder says he has quite an arsenal.

"I throw a hundred ... (and) a curveball from hell," Gose said, according to Hunter Atkins of the Houston Chronicle, who noted he's maxed out at 99.8 mph thus far.

After struggling with consistency over the first five years of his career as an outfielder, Gose converted to a pitcher last season. He posted a 7.59 ERA and 1.22 WHIP in 10 2/3 innings with the Detroit Tigers Class-A affiliate, striking out 14 and walking six.

Gose pitched in high school and approached the Tigers with the idea of making the switch last March, though he admits the thought of converting from a position player to a full-time pitcher wasn't something he was thrilled about.

"It sucked," Gose said. "I didn't want to do it."

Gose agreed to a minor-league deal with the Texas Rangers in November. But before even throwing a pitch with the Rangers, the Astros selected him in the Rule 5 Draft. He's got a shot to land a spot in the bullpen with the reigning World Series champions, but will be returned to the Rangers if he isn't on the Opening Day roster.