Story perspectives

Zac Gallen Shines Late, Sparks Free Agency Buzz

9/13/2025

Summary

Story summary

Zac Gallen, an Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher, is becoming a sought-after free agent despite a 4.84 ERA over 30 starts this season.
His recent performance features a 2.57 ERA in August and a scoreless start in September, increasing his appeal.
The Diamondbacks may offer him a Qualifying Offer of about $22-23 million, allowing him to choose between acceptance or free agency.
If he declines, Arizona could gain a compensatory draft pick.
Other pitchers, like Eduardo Rodriguez and Andrew Saalfrank, are also improving.

History

Historical Context

Major League Baseball introduced the Qualifying Offer system in 2011, enabling teams to gain compensatory draft picks when free agents decline offers. The Arizona Diamondbacks are considering a $22 million offer for pitcher Zac Gallen, reflecting a trend of significant investments in pitching talent. Historical contracts for pitchers like Max Scherzer and Gerrit Cole have shaped this competitive market.

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Story summary

Zac Gallen, an Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher, is becoming a sought-after free agent despite a 4.84 ERA over 30 starts this season.
His recent performance features a 2.57 ERA in August and a scoreless start in September, increasing his appeal.
The Diamondbacks may offer him a Qualifying Offer of about $22-23 million, allowing him to choose between acceptance or free agency.
If he declines, Arizona could gain a compensatory draft pick.
Other pitchers, like Eduardo Rodriguez and Andrew Saalfrank, are also improving.

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