Zac Gallen Rejoins Diamondbacks with New Free Agent Contract
Starting pitcher Zac Gallen is making a return to the Arizona Diamondbacks with a new free agent contract, as reported by Arizona Sports’ John Gambadoro. This one-year deal is valued at $22.05 million, with $14 million set to be deferred. Notably, the contract includes no option years or performance incentives.
Zac Gallen’s Contract Details
The financial structure of Gallen’s contract sees roughly $2.8 million paid annually over a five-year span, beginning in the sixth year. General manager Mike Hazen confirmed that Gallen’s return is significant for a team seeking to bolster its starting rotation.
Free Agency Landscape
Before signing this deal, the Diamondbacks extended Gallen a qualifying offer worth $22 million for one year. Gallen declined this offer, which allowed Arizona to potentially gain draft compensation if he chose to join another team.
While Gallen was a free agent, several teams, including the Cubs, Orioles, and Padres, displayed interest. D-backs manager Torey Lovullo commented on Gallen’s talent, expressing his optimism about welcoming the pitcher back into the team.
Arizona’s Need for Starting Pitching
The Diamondbacks entered the offseason in urgent need of starting pitching after trading Merrill Kelly and with ace Corbin Burnes recovering from Tommy John surgery. The team also recently signed right-hander Michael Soroka and re-signed Kelly for two years.
With Gallen’s return, Arizona anticipates enhancing its pitching rotation, which currently features Ryne Nelson, Eduardo Rodriguez, and Brandon Pfaadt.
Zac Gallen’s Performance and Legacy
Gallen, aged 30, has been a vital component of the Diamondbacks since joining the organization in 2019. He was acquired from the Miami Marlins in exchange for top prospect Jazz Chisholm Jr. Throughout his tenure, Gallen has consistently performed well, finishing among the top 10 in Cy Young voting three times and earning an All-Star selection.
He also became the third pitcher in franchise history to record over 1,000 strikeouts, alongside legends Randy Johnson and Brandon Webb. Gallen ranks third in team history for innings pitched (971) and starts (169), and fourth for pitcher bWAR (19.4).
Recent Season Overview
In the 2025 season, Gallen faced challenges and began the year strongly but struggled midseason, leading to a 5.75 ERA in July. His struggles were attributed to command issues that impacted his past success. Despite this, Gallen rebounded over the season’s final two months, producing eight quality starts and finishing with 192 innings pitched, marking the second-highest total of his career.
Conclusion
Zac Gallen’s return to the Diamondbacks signifies a renewed commitment by the franchise to compete. As they continue to fortify their roster, Gallen’s experience and talent will be pivotal in their quest for success.
