The Arizona Diamondbacks head into the 2025 offseason with just a handful of impending free agents. Still, they’re facing some huge decisions that’ll set the tone for the next few years.
Zac Gallen’s contract situation looms large. Guys like James McCann, Ildemaro Vargas, Jalen Beeks, and Lourdes Gurriel Jr. have their own question marks, too.
The front office needs to figure out how to keep competing now while building for 2026. After moving several veterans at the deadline for prospects and payroll room, Arizona’s winter will be all about shoring up pitching depth and stabilizing the bullpen.
Zac Gallen’s Future Could Define Arizona’s Rotation
Zac Gallen sits right at the heart of Arizona’s offseason drama. The 30-year-old righty had a rocky stretch but found his groove late, finishing with a solid 3.32 ERA over his last 11 starts.
He’s already third in franchise history for starts, innings, and strikeouts. That kind of résumé makes him pretty much the face of the pitching staff.
The Qualifying Offer Dilemma
Arizona will almost certainly throw Gallen a qualifying offer in the $22 million range. But let’s be real—Gallen’s not likely to take it.
He’ll probably chase a multi-year deal somewhere, or maybe the D-backs pony up for a longer extension. Whatever he decides, it’s going to ripple across the rest of the rotation, especially since depth is already a bit of a sore spot.
Assessing the Supporting Cast
Gallen’s situation will grab the headlines, but Arizona’s other free agents matter, too. Each one brought something different to the table.
The front office has to decide who’s worth keeping and where they need to reload.
James McCann’s Impact Behind the Plate
James McCann came in midseason and turned out to be way more than just a stopgap. His leadership and knack for calling a game helped the pitching staff hold a 4.02 ERA when he was catching.
He chipped in a .754 OPS at the plate, too. In a league where good catchers are tough to find, McCann’s mix of on-field skills and clubhouse presence makes a pretty strong case for a return.
Ildemaro Vargas’ Versatility
Vargas returned midyear and plugged holes all over the infield. He hit a respectable .270 in limited action before a broken foot shut him down.
His flexibility gives Arizona options, which they sorely needed with all the injuries last season.
Jalen Beeks’ Bullpen Stability
Jalen Beeks was a rare bright spot in relief. He gave the team 61 solid appearances and posted a 3.77 ERA.
He finished strong, stringing together scoreless outings that helped an otherwise shaky bullpen. Arizona needs to either keep him or find someone who can fill that role.
Lourdes Gurriel Jr.’s Injury Setback
Lourdes Gurriel Jr. just couldn’t catch a break this year. He struggled with inconsistency, then tore his ACL in September and was done for the season.
Nobody really knows if he’ll be ready for 2026, so the team has to take a hard look at the outfield this winter—both offensively and defensively.
Offseason Priorities for the Diamondbacks
Arizona has a lot to figure out, but three things stand out:
- Settle Zac Gallen’s contract and figure out who’s anchoring the rotation.
- Bolster the bullpen with depth around guys like Jalen Beeks.
- Patch roster holes left by injuries and departures, especially behind the plate and in the outfield.
Rotation Depth Concerns
After Gallen, the rotation leans on Ryne Nelson, Brandon Pfaadt, and Eduardo Rodriguez. They’ve shown flashes, but none have really proven they can carry a playoff team yet.
Arizona’s going to need to bring in some experienced arms if they want to stay in the mix for 2026. Otherwise, it could be a long season.
The Winter Ahead
The 2025 offseason feels like a crossroads for the Diamondbacks. Last summer’s trades brought in some promising prospects and gave the team a little financial breathing room.
But those benefits only matter if the front office can actually fix immediate needs without messing up the future core. It’s a tricky spot, honestly.
How Arizona handles Zac Gallen’s free agency could set their direction for years. If they manage to lock him in long term, they’ll have a true centerpiece to build around.
If he leaves, though, they’ll be scrambling to replace an ace in a market where arms like that just aren’t available. With several key role players also hitting free agency, the Diamondbacks’ front office has to walk a fine line between retooling and staying competitive in the cutthroat National League West.
Here is the source article for this story: Diamondbacks free agents, options heading into offseason
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