Zac Gallen, a veteran pitcher, is back with the Arizona Diamondbacks after a year of free agency. The team extended him a qualifying offer, which he declined, allowing them to retain his services without sacrificing draft picks. This decision comes as a relief for the Diamondbacks, who were in dire need of starting pitching after trading Merrill Kelly and with ace Corbin Burnes recovering from surgery. The contract is for one year, worth $22.05 million, with $14 million deferred, and two-thirds of the money paid out over five years, starting in Year 6. Gallen's return is a significant boost for the team, as he has a strong history with the organization. He joined in 2019, bringing top talent and impressive statistics, including top-10 finishes in the Cy Young race, All-Star appearances, and becoming the third pitcher in franchise history to strike out 1,000 batters. His durability and command are notable, ranking him third in innings and second in wins over the past four seasons. Despite a challenging 2025 season, marked by a high ERA and struggles with home runs and walks, Gallen's performance in the final months of the year showcased his resilience and ability to turn things around. The Diamondbacks' decision to re-sign Gallen is a strategic move, ensuring a strong foundation for the team's future success.
