The Milkman is back: Diamondbacks in agreement with Zac Gallen on 1-year deal

According to MLB.com’s Steve Gilbert, the Diamondbacks are in agreement with ace Zac Gallen on a one-year deal. The agreement, The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal reports, is worth $22.025 million and will keep the right-hander at the top of Arizona’s rotation.

Gallen has been with the D-Backs since 2019, when he was acquired in a trade with the Miami Marlins. He has developed into one of the team’s most consistent starters during that span. While 2025 marked a step back — highlighted by a career-worst 4.83 ERA — the second half offered optimism. Over the final two months of the season, he posted a 3.32 ERA, according to StatMuse, suggesting a return to form.

Aug 29, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks starting pitcher Zac Gallen (23) pitches against the Los Angeles Dodgers in the second inning at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

As the Diamondbacks look for a bounce-back season from their ace, they secure a proven arm amid some uncertainty in the rotation. With several pitchers recovering and roles still unsettled, the agreement signals that Gallen and Merrill Kelly are once again expected to anchor the staff as the one-two punch that has defined Arizona’s rotation in recent years.

Gallen’s return also restores familiarity inside the clubhouse. He knows the organization, the pitching philosophy and the expectations, and he has demonstrated the ability to provide valuable innings when the club needs them most.

May 28, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Zac Gallen in the fourth inning against the Pittsburgh Pirates at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

His 2023 campaign remains the high point of his tenure, as he built a strong Cy Young case and carried that momentum into the postseason, helping lead Arizona to the World Series. Now, he will look to rebound from 2025 and contribute at a similar level as he did three seasons ago.

The move also signals Arizona’s broader intentions for 2026. With additional returns, including Kelly and Paul Sewald, the D-Backs appear to be prioritizing continuity.

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

Whether that approach pays off remains to be seen, but leaning on established pieces from within the organization could provide stability as the club aims to return to the postseason.