© David Frerker-Imagn Images
PHOENIX – Zac Gallen was named as one of the 13 players in Major League Baseball that was extended a qualifying offer, as the Arizona Diamondbacks would love to see him back in the Desert.
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Sep 20, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Zac Gallen (23) pitches against the Philadelphia Phillies during the third inning at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images
The D-Backs’ decision to extend a qualifying offer to Zac Gallen is more than a ritual; it’s a calculated move at the intersection of risk mitigation and fan sentiment, while maximizing their value. On one hand, the $22 million one‐year offer gives Gallen a pay-raise chance to reassert his ace form. On the other hand, if Gallen declines the offer and opts for free agency, the D-Backs receive a compensatory draft pick, essentially turning a veteran departure into a future asset.
Sep 9, 2025; San Francisco, California, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks starting pitcher Zac Gallen (23) argues with home plate umpire Doug Eddings (88) (not pictured) during a pitching change against the San Francisco Giants during the seventh inning at Oracle Park. Mandatory Credit: Robert Edwards-Imagn Images
From a data perspective, Gallen’s recent slide warrants caution. His 2025 4.83 ERA is far off his previous ace‐caliber numbers. Yet, his late stretch after the deadline suggests a resurgence worth betting on. The qualifying offer allows Arizona to capture the upside of Gallen possibly staying for one more year or work the downside of his departure and the future of their draft pick.
Sep 26, 2025; San Diego, California, USA; Arizona starting pitcher Zac Gallen (23) throws a pitch during the first inning against the San Diego Padres at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: David Frerker-Imagn Images
How D-Backs fans feel about Zac Gallen’s return:
For Arizona fans, this gives clarity that either Gallen will return under his terms if he rejects the qualifying offer, or he departs and the club reinvests via the draft. The emotional dimension is real, as Gallen’s last game season was more than emotional about his time in Arizona. Although sentiment doesn’t override business, the D-Backs must weigh payroll constraints and future flexibility.
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Reporter Benjamin Bliklen covers the Arizona Diamondbacks, Arizona Cardinals, and Phoenix Suns for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @BenBliklen
