Cory Wayne Gearrin (born September 4, 1986) is an American former professional baseball pitcher. He played in Major League Baseball (MLB) for the San Francisco Giants, Atlanta Braves, Texas Rangers, Miami Marlins, San Diego Padres, and Philadelphia Phillies. Gearrin is noted for his sidearm delivery and effectiveness as a reliever, particularly in late‑inning situations.
Early life and education
Cory Gearrin was born in Spring, Texas. He attended Texas A&M University, where he played college baseball for the Texas A&M Aggies. As a senior in 2007, he posted a 9–6 win–loss record with a 2.33 earned run average (ERA) and 13 saves, earning All‑SEC honors.
Professional career
San Francisco Giants
Gearrin was selected by the San Francisco Giants in the ninth round of the 2007 MLB Draft. He progressed through the Giants' minor‑league system and made his MLB debut on August 7, 2011, against the New York Mets. During his tenure with the Giants (2011–2015), Gearrin primarily served as a middle‑relief and setup pitcher, appearing in 191 games with a cumulative 3.69 ERA.
Atlanta Braves
On December 2, 2015, Gearrin signed a two‑year contract with the Atlanta Braves. In 2016, he recorded a 2.09 ERA across 72 appearances, establishing himself as a reliable left‑handed specialist. In 2017, he continued as a key bullpen piece, posting a 3.22 ERA in 75 games.
Texas Rangers
Gearrin signed a one‑year contract with the Texas Rangers for the 2018 season. He appeared in 55 games, posting a 4.53 ERA.
Miami Marlins
In January 2019, Gearrin signed a one‑year deal with the Miami Marlins. He made 33 appearances for Miami, recording a 5.53 ERA before being released in August 2019.
San Diego Padres
Shortly after his release, Gearrin signed a minor‑league contract with the San Diego Padres and was added to the major‑league roster in September 2019. He pitched in 9 games, posting a 2.65 ERA.
Philadelphia Phillies
Gearrin signed a minor‑league contract with the Philadelphia Phillies in February 2020. He made the Opening Day roster and appeared in 17 games that season, posting a 2.57 ERA. He remained with the organization through the 2021 season, serving in a veteran relief role before becoming a free agent.
Pitching style
Gearrin is a left‑handed pitcher who employs a sidearm delivery, generating horizontal movement on his fastball and slider. His arsenal typically includes a four‑seam fastball (mid‑90s mph), a two‑seam fastball with sink, and a slider in the low‑80s. The delivery and pitch mix made him effective against left‑handed batters in situational matchups.
Personal life
Gearrin is married to his wife, Kelsey, and the couple has children. Off the field, he has participated in community outreach programs organized by his teams, including youth baseball clinics.
Career statistics (MLB)
| Season | Team(s) | Games (G) | Wins–Losses (W–L) | Saves (SV) | ERA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2011–2021 | Various | 545 | 20–27 | 33 | 3.69 |
(Statistics are based on records compiled through the end of the 2021 MLB season.)
Legacy
Cory Gearrin is regarded as a durable left‑handed reliever who contributed to multiple postseason-eligible clubs, notably the 2014 Giants World Series championship team, where he appeared in the postseason. His sidearm delivery remains a reference point for pitchers transitioning to specialist bullpen roles.