The Yankees swung big this offseason, bolstering their lineup with some impressive moves. But life threw them a curveball in the form of Gerrit Cole’s injury, putting the team in a bind. Sure, their bats are lighting up scoreboards, but whispers about pitching depth are becoming more ominous. When the offense inevitably cools off, the mound could become the Yankees’ Achilles heel.
Rumor has it the Yankees are scouring the market for reinforcements. MLB insider Bob Nightengale suggests Zac Gallen, the Arizona Diamondbacks’ ace, might be on their radar. Gallen, finishing his $13.5 million contract this season, is eyeing free agency—and with it, a hefty payday.
After striking out 13 Yankees in a dazzling performance, Gallen’s talent didn’t just leave hitters flailing; it also set off alarm bells in New York’s front office. The Philadelphia-area native has a soft spot for the East Coast, making him an enticing prospect for the Yankees. As much as the Diamondbacks would love to keep their star, their wallet might not stretch far enough—especially after splurging $210 million on Corbin Burnes.
With Gallen likely set to land a mega $200-million-plus deal, the Yankees might see him as a game-changer for their rotation. His 2024 stats—14 wins, a 3.65 ERA—back up his reputation, and his 2025 start has been just as sharp, including a dominant showing against New York.
Pairing Gallen with Gerrit Cole would be a dream duo, though Cole’s experience and reliability still make him the Yankees’ alpha arm. While Cole keeps batters guessing with his pitch variety and laser-focused preparation, Gallen’s precision and knack for avoiding walks have turned him into a rising Cy Young contender.
But here’s the catch: the Yankees have their own financial hurdles to clear. With Cole, Carlos Rodón, and Max Fried set to make a combined $78.3 million in 2026, their budget is tighter than a brand-new glove. Adding Gallen might require some creative accounting—or a miracle. After all, even baseball dynasties have limits.
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