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Zac Gallen Boosts Fastball Velocity Ahead of Opening Day

3/26/2026

26 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Zac Gallen of the Arizona Diamondbacks revamped his training regimen after becoming a free agent.
He reached his highest fastball velocity in four years during spring training, averaging 94.2 mph.
Gallen trained at Club Nemesis under coach Taylor Rhoades, focusing on strength and mechanics.
He aims to improve on a 4.83 ERA from last season and prepares for his fourth consecutive Opening Day start, emphasizing refined mechanics and health.

History

Historical Context

In 1976, Major League Baseball's introduction of free agency transformed player contracts, allowing athletes like Catfish Hunter to negotiate independently. Following the Seitz decision, which nullified the reserve clause, Hunter signed a groundbreaking five-year, $3.75 million deal with the New York Yankees. This shift emphasized individual performance and health management, reshaping player dynamics and contract negotiations in the league.

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Story summary

Zac Gallen of the Arizona Diamondbacks revamped his training regimen after becoming a free agent.
He reached his highest fastball velocity in four years during spring training, averaging 94.2 mph.
Gallen trained at Club Nemesis under coach Taylor Rhoades, focusing on strength and mechanics.
He aims to improve on a 4.83 ERA from last season and prepares for his fourth consecutive Opening Day start, emphasizing refined mechanics and health.

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