News - Zac Gallen re-signs with Arizona on a 1-year, $22 million deal to strengthen the pitching rotation.

In an effort to strengthen their pitching roster for the upcoming season, the Arizona Diamondbacks have re-signed right-handed pitcher Zac Gallen to a one-year, $22 million contract. This deal brings Gallen back after a turbulent free agency period where he declined the qualifying offer, in hopes of securing a multi-year agreement which ultimately did not materialize. Gallen's Return to Arizona: The Diamondbacks are banking on a revitalized Zac Gallen after a challenging season where he posted a 4.83 ERA. Despite appearing in good health throughout the year, he struggled to suppress the offensive power of opposing hitters. His inconsistencies led Arizona to retain him rather than trading him mid-season. While Gallen had aspirations of a high-value contract exceeding $100 million, his options dwindled, leading him back to Arizona where he has past successes. Reports suggest that Gallen had offers for longer durations but chose to bet on himself with the Diamondbacks, preferring the comfort and familiarity of their pitching staff. Performance Outlook: The period after the trade deadline showed a marked improvement in Gallen’s performance. He achieved a 6-3 record with a more respectable 3.32 ERA and a 3.95 FIP. His late-season resurgence gives Arizona hope that he can reclaim the form he displayed in previous years and be a pivotal part of their pitching rotation. Gallen now returns at the helm of the Diamondbacks’ rotation, aiming to cement his role as the staff ace. Behind him, Merrill Kelly, Ryne Nelson, Eduardo Rodriguez, and Brandon Pfaadt complete the starting rotation. Each brings potential, but much of the team's success hinges on Gallen’s ability to perform consistently. Pivotally, Merrill Kelly had notably revived his career with the Diamondbacks, exceeding expectations. Ryne Nelson also steps into a critical role following a standout season where he posted a 3.39 ERA across 23 starts. As these pitchers look to build upon their successes, Arizona’s bullpen depth will prove crucial. Strategic Betting: This strategy sees Arizona strategically placing their trust in Gallen by awarding him a chance to prove his worth on a shorter contract while keeping the flexibility for future negotiations. If Gallen regains his form from the 2023 and 2024 seasons, the Diamondbacks could emerge with one of the strongest rotations in the National League.