Diamondbacks Reportedly Interested in Signing Pitcher Zac Gallen

The free agent starter is drawing interest from multiple teams as he looks to bounce back from a down year.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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According to reports, the Arizona Diamondbacks are among the teams interested in signing free agent starting pitcher Zac Gallen. Gallen, who spent the last seven seasons with the Diamondbacks, declined the team's qualifying offer of $22.05 million for one year. The 30-year-old is coming off his worst season as a pro, posting a 4.83 ERA and 1.260 WHIP in 2022. The Diamondbacks are looking to add starting pitching depth as they prepare for the upcoming season.

Why it matters

Gallen was a key part of the Diamondbacks' rotation for several seasons, so his potential return would be a boost for the team as they look to improve on their 74-88 record from last year. The Diamondbacks are also dealing with injuries to other starters, making Gallen's experience and talent an attractive option.

The details

The Diamondbacks are reportedly competing with several other teams, including the San Diego Padres, Baltimore Orioles, and Chicago Cubs, to sign Gallen. The free agent market for starting pitchers has been active this offseason, and Gallen is drawing interest as teams look to add proven arms to their rotations.

  • Gallen declined the Diamondbacks' $22.05 million qualifying offer in November 2022.
  • Diamondbacks pitchers and catchers are scheduled to report to spring training on February 14, 2023.

The players

Zac Gallen

A 30-year-old starting pitcher who spent the last seven seasons with the Arizona Diamondbacks. He is a free agent this offseason after declining the team's qualifying offer.

Corbin Burnes

A starting pitcher for the Diamondbacks who is recovering from Tommy John surgery and is expected to return to the team in mid-July 2023.

Merrill Kelly

A starting pitcher for the Diamondbacks who is projected to be one of the team's top options for the Opening Day rotation in 2023.

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What they’re saying

“People have been like, 'Hey, we'd really love for you to come back.' I think people understand what Phoenix means to me. My wife is from here. I'm calling this home base now. For us to be here would be awesome.”

— Zac Gallen (USA Today)

What’s next

The Diamondbacks will continue to monitor Gallen's free agency situation as they finalize their roster for the 2023 season. If they are able to re-sign Gallen, it would provide a significant boost to their starting rotation.

The takeaway

The Diamondbacks' interest in bringing back Zac Gallen highlights the team's desire to add proven starting pitching talent to their roster. Gallen's familiarity with the organization and the Phoenix area could give the Diamondbacks an advantage in the bidding war for the free agent.