© Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
PHOENIX — Conflicting reports surrounding former Arizona Diamondbacks ace Zac Gallen’s future sparked confusion and emotion among fans on Saturday morning.
Thank you for reading this post, don’t forget to subscribe!
Arizona Diamondbacks right-hander Zac Gallen (23) pitches against the Cleveland Guardians at Chase Field on Aug. 19, 2025.
A report from USA TODAY’s Bob Nightengale suggested Gallen had agreed to a multi-year deal with the Chicago Cubs worth about $22 million per year. However, ESPN’s Jeff Passan quickly debunked the report, saying the 2023 National League Cy Young runner-up was nowhere near a finalized agreement.
Many Diamondbacks fans who believed Gallen’s time in the desert had come to an abrupt end were left with a sense of whiplash as the contradictory reports circulated.
Lololol maybe Zac Gallen isn’t going to Chicago? https://t.co/IWGUk5PP9F
— 🌵 Mr. Az (@MrAzSports) December 6, 2025
I’m crying how does this always happen to Bob https://t.co/qvPDSuUkLa
— Logan🌵 (@phxlogan) December 6, 2025
TOLD YALL IT WAS OVER https://t.co/gcdM1rgNn2
— Rob 🌵🍊 (@RobFrmAZ) December 6, 2025
Aug 8, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Zac Gallen (23) and catcher James McCann (8) prepare to take the mound for the start of a game against the Colorado Rockies at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Allan Henry-Imagn Images
The reaction underscores how much the former ace has meant to the fanbase and how closely fans are watching to see where he ultimately lands as the offseason ramps up.
Gallen has been considered a top target for several teams this winter. With pitchers such as Dylan Cease already off the market, the pool of available starting pitching has shrunk, increasing urgency for clubs still looking to fill rotation holes. A pitcher of Gallen’s caliber is expected to draw interest beyond Arizona.
Apr 13, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Zac Gallen (23) reacts after the end of the second inning against the Milwaukee Brewers at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Allan Henry-Imagn Images
After a rocky start to 2025, Gallen regained his form in the second half and finished with a 4.83 ERA, 1.26 WHIP and 175 strikeouts.
For now, the former ace’s status remains in limbo, and Diamondbacks fans will continue to wait to see what the next update brings for the “Milk Man.”
*Get the BEST Phoenix sports insider information, and exclusive content. SIGN UP HERE to unlock our premium content!*
Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde
Diamondbacks bring back Taylor Rashi on minor league contract
