Published: April 1, 2025
SAN DIEGO, CA – Gavin Sheets, a 28-year-old professional baseball player, has transitioned from the Chicago White Sox to the San Diego Padres, where he is already making significant contributions
Early Life and Amateur Career
Born on April 23, 1996, in Lutherville, Maryland, Gavin Crawford Sheets is the son of former Major League Baseball outfielder Larry Sheets. He attended Gilman School in Baltimore and was selected by the Atlanta Braves in the 2014 MLB Draft. Opting to further develop his skills, Sheets enrolled at Wake Forest University, playing for the Demon Deacons. During his junior year in 2017, he showcased impressive performance, batting .317 with 21 home runs and 84 RBIs, earning All-Atlantic Coast Conference honors.
Professional Career
Chicago White Sox (2017–2024)
The Chicago White Sox drafted Sheets in the second round of the 2017 MLB Draft with the 49th overall pick. He made his MLB debut on June 29, 2021, against the Minnesota Twins, recording his first major league hit—a single to left field off Kenta Maeda. In his debut season, Sheets appeared in 54 games, posting a .250 batting average with 11 home runs and 34 RBIs.
Over the next few seasons, Sheets continued to be a versatile player for the White Sox, splitting time between right field and first base. In 2023, he batted .203/.267/.331 in 311 at-bats. Following the 2024 season, where he slashed .233/.303/.357 with 10 home runs and 45 RBIs, the White Sox non-tendered Sheets on November 22, 2024, making him a free agent.
San Diego Padres (2025–Present)
On February 9, 2025, Sheets signed a minor league contract with the San Diego Padres. His performance during spring training earned him a spot on the Opening Day roster. In his first at-bat as a Padre on Opening Day, Sheets hit a solo home run off Atlanta Braves pitcher Héctor Neris, marking a memorable debut with his new team.
Continuing his strong start, Sheets played a pivotal role in the Padres’ 7-4 victory over the Braves on March 27, 2025. He hit a 405-foot home run to tie the game in the seventh inning, igniting a rally that led to the win. His performance contributed significantly to the Padres’ early-season success.
Recent Performances
As of March 31, 2025, Sheets has started the last three games at designated hitter against right-handed pitching. He has responded well to the opportunity, going 4-for-11 with a home run to start the campaign. Playing the strong side of a platoon, Sheets is expected to offer decent fantasy value in the Padres’ high-powered lineup.
