The winds of change blow strongest when loyalty meets financial reality. Zac Gallen, the ace who has anchored Arizona’s rotation through championship runs and crushing defeats, stands at a crossroads that could redefine his relationship with the only franchise he has known as a star. The Diamondbacks face an uncomfortable truth: keeping their homegrown talent may no longer align with their economic constraints.

Gallen’s resurgence since the trade deadline tells a compelling story of redemption and timing. The right-hander has been instrumental in Arizona’s playoff push, with the team recently defeating the Red Sox 5-1 at Chase Field to move closer to a Wild Card spot. His post-deadline performance—going 4-1 with a 2.20 ERA—reminded everyone why Arizona once considered him untradeable, having not allowed more than three earned runs in a start since July 27. Yet this stellar finish creates the very problem that may drive him away from the desert.

Arizona’s front office operates under harsh financial realities that make sentiment a luxury they cannot afford. The team plans significant payroll cuts while facing approximately $38.5 million in obligations to injured players for 2026, including ace Corbin Burnes, recovering from Tommy John surgery. The Diamondbacks will strongly consider offering Gallen a qualifying offer, but don’t expect him to accept it. This anticipated rejection would net Arizona a late first-round compensation draft pick, making the business decision clearer despite the emotional cost. The organization that developed Gallen into an elite pitcher now finds itself positioned to watch him walk away for nothing more than draft compensation.

The organization that developed Gallen recognizes that his transformation stems from tactical evolution. “I think the one thing that has really pushed him to the next level is a two-seam fastball,” Lovullo said to Arizona Sports 98.7’s Burns & Gambo on Friday. This pitch development explains his recent dominance, yet it also amplifies the cruel irony of Arizona’s situation—watching their investment in Gallen’s growth potentially benefit another franchise.

As the Diamondbacks prepare for life without their ace, they’re simultaneously addressing immediate roster needs. The front office continues making moves to shore up its remaining pitching staff.

Diamondbacks Add DeSclafani Back to Pitching Staff

DeSclafani returns from right thumb inflammation that has kept him out since August 13. The 35-year-old veteran brings experience to a rotation that has endured constant shuffling this season. His 4.36 ERA across 33 innings doesn’t tell the complete story of his value—Arizona needs innings eaters who can handle multiple roles when circumstances demand flexibility.

The journeyman signed a minor league deal in June and earned his way onto the major league roster through solid long relief work. Two bulk saves demonstrated his reliability before injuries forced him into starting duties after the Merrill Kelly trade. Three competent starts followed before the thumb injury interrupted his momentum, creating an opportunity others have seized.

Nabil Crismatt has thrived in DeSclafani’s absence, posting a sparkling 2.14 ERA over four starts. His latest outing—6.1 innings with just two earned runs—proves he belongs in the conversation for a rotation spot. DeSclafani is likely to return to long relief initially, although Arizona’s fluid approach means roles remain negotiable based on performance and necessity.