Zac Gallen signs with Diamondbacks: Arizona brings back ace on one-year contract, per report
CBS Sports
by
Dayn Perry
February 14, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Zac Gallen is set to return to the Arizona Diamondbacks on a one-year contract worth $22.025 million, with approximately $14 million deferred. The deal matches the qualifying offer he rejected earlier, signaling his decision to focus on rebuilding his career rather than pursuing a long-term contract. This move highlights Gallen’s determination to prove himself after a challenging 2025 season, during which he struggled despite finishing in the top 10 of the National League Cy Young voting three times.
Gallen, 30, brings a proven track record to the mound with a career ERA+ of 119 and a FIP of 3.65 across seven MLB seasons. His ability to consistently pitch over 180 innings in recent years makes him a valuable asset for the D-backs’ rotation. Having spent the majority of his career with Arizona since being acquired from the Miami Marlins in 2019, Gallen’s return aligns with the team’s efforts to bolster their starting pitching.
The signing comes after a tough offseason for Gallen, during which he was ranked as one of the top free agents but faced challenges due to an inconsistent 2025 campaign. His decision to accept a one-year deal suggests a focus on redemption and adaptability, as he looks to reverse a downward trend in his performance over the past two years.
For the Diamondbacks, reuniting with Gallen adds depth to an already strong rotation that includes Merrill Kelly, Eduardo Rodriguez, and rising stars like Brandon
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Originally published on CBS Sports on 2/14/2026