Austin Gomber Landing Spots: 3 top fits for ex-Cardinals, Rockies lefty pitcher

Austin Gomber is a free agent after the Rockies moved on from him late in the 2025 season. His last season in Colorado was interrupted by injury and ineffective outings.

Gomber missed the start of the season with left shoulder soreness, returned in June and made 12 starts before being released in August. He went 0–7 with a 7.49 ERA and a 1.72 WHIP. Home runs and hard contact continued to be issues, as they were in his earlier seasons at altitude.

Before his time in Colorado, Gomber held a more stable role in St. Louis as a control-oriented left-hander used at the back of the rotation.

Teams view Austin Gomber as depth, dependent on his health, ballpark and defensive support. Any interest will be tied to a limited cost and role-specific.

#1. St. Louis Cardinals

A return to the St. Louis Cardinals would come with familiarity. The Cardinals are familiar with Austin Gomber and know how to utilize him. Busch Stadium limits damage on contact and favors pitchers who stay in the zone.

Gomber would not be asked to lead the rotation. He would compete for a spot at the back end or serve as depth when injuries arise.

St. Louis has regularly carried pitchers in this role to protect starters over a full season. Gomber’s ability to throw strikes and avoid long innings fits that usage. This would be a depth move, not a rotation reset for the Cardinals.

#2. San Diego Padres

The San Diego Padres provide a more forgiving environment. Petco Park suppresses power, which addresses Austin Gomber’s biggest issue.

The Padres have cycled depth starters in recent seasons and have taken short-term chances on pitchers coming off injuries when the cost is low.

Gomber would not be guaranteed a role. He would likely enter camp competing for a fifth starter or long relief spot. The commitment would be limited, and usage would depend on performance.

#3. Los Angeles Dodgers

The Los Angeles Dodgers have continued to add pitchers on short-term deals and manage them through structured usage. Their staff depth allows for selective deployment and controlled workloads.

Austin Gomber would not be relied on early and would likely be used only if healthy and effective. Dodger Stadium and defensive support reduce some of the risks he faced in Colorado.

Any deal would likely include incentives and limited guarantees, serving as depth for the team if he remains available during the season.

Edited by nagpaltusharn25