Gamel was called up to the Majors for the first time when rosters expanded on September 1, 2008, and made his debut two days later, striking out in a pinch-hitting appearance. He recorded his first career hit, a double, on September 7, 2008, off of Chris Young of the San Diego Padres. He hit his first career home run on May 18, 2009, off of Kyle Lohse of the St. Louis Cardinals. However, he made his first fielding error at third base during the same game, even though he had made a great play just a few innings earlier. He hit his second home run off Jason Hammel of the Colorado Rockies.[citation needed]
On May 22, 2012, Gamel underwent surgery to repair a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and missed the rest of the 2012 season.[4]
During 2013 Spring Training, Gamel retore his surgically repaired ACL and missed the entire 2013 season.[5]
Chicago Cubs
On October 3, 2013, Gamel was claimed off waivers by the Chicago Cubs.[6] On December 2, he was non-tendered by Chicago, becoming a free agent.[7]
Atlanta Braves
On December 13, 2013, Gamel signed a minor league contract with the Atlanta Braves.[8] However, he re-injured himself doing workouts before spring training and was released by the Braves on February 18, 2014.[9][10]
New York Yankees
On March 6, 2015 it was reported that Mat signed a minor league contract with the New York Yankees.[11] He was released on March 14, 2015.[12]
Somerset Patriots
On March 31, 2015, Gamel signed with the Somerset Patriots of the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball. He was released on September 1. In 73 games he struggled immensely hitting .196/.258/.325 with 7 home runs, 34 RBIs and 1 stolen base.
Camden Riversharks
On September 3, 2015, Gamel signed with the Camden Riversharks of the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball. He became a free agent following the season. In 15 games he struggled terribly hitting .132/.207/.208 with 1 home run and 3 RBIs.
Personal life
Gamel's brother, Ben, also plays in MLB as an outfielder.[13] Gamel is currently married[14] with two children.[15]