Story perspectives

Zac Gallen Signs $22M Deal, Boosts Diamondbacks' Rotation

2/14/2026

Summary

Story summary

Zac Gallen signed a one-year, $22.025 million contract with the Arizona Diamondbacks, matching the qualifying offer he declined.
The deal is pending a physical and includes about $14 million in deferred payments.
Gallen, 30, posted a career-high 4.83 ERA over 33 starts in 2025.
The signing strengthens Arizona's rotation alongside Merrill Kelly and Eduardo Rodriguez as the team looks to rebound after 2025.

History

Historical Context

The 2021-22 MLB lockout, initiated on December 2, 2021, marked the first work stoppage since 1994-95, halting player transactions. On March 10, 2022, a new Collective Bargaining Agreement was reached, raising minimum salaries to $700,000 and introducing a draft lottery. This agreement reshaped team strategies, exemplified by Zac Gallen's $22.025 million contract with the Arizona Diamondbacks, reflecting increased financial investment in pitching.

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Story summary

Zac Gallen signed a one-year, $22.025 million contract with the Arizona Diamondbacks, matching the qualifying offer he declined.
The deal is pending a physical and includes about $14 million in deferred payments.
Gallen, 30, posted a career-high 4.83 ERA over 33 starts in 2025.
The signing strengthens Arizona's rotation alongside Merrill Kelly and Eduardo Rodriguez as the team looks to rebound after 2025.

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