Arizona Diamondbacks’ star pitcher Zac Gallen has been placed on the 15-day injured list due to a right hamstring strain. Gallen left his recent game against the New York Mets after just six pitches, favoring his leg. He will undergo an MRI for further evaluation.
Gallen’s Season-Long Battle
Gallen has been dealing with hamstring issues throughout the 2024 season. He first experienced tightness in his right hamstring during an April 26 start against the Seattle Mariners. After a 10-day break, he returned and pitched well, but this latest injury seems more severe.
Impact on the Team
The Diamondbacks are already facing challenges with key pitchers Eduardo Rodriguez and Merrill Kelly on the 60-day injured list. Rodriguez is recovering from a lat strain, and Kelly is dealing with a shoulder injury, which has left Arizona’s rotation significantly weakened. Losing Gallen, who has a 3.12 ERA and averages nearly six innings per start, adds to their woes.
Current Rotation Depth
Arizona’s current rotation is thin and struggling:
- Zac Gallen (hamstring strain)
- Jordan Montgomery
- Merrill Kelly (shoulder injury)
- Eduardo Rodriguez (lat injury)
- Brandon Pfaadt
- Ryne Nelson
- Blake Walston
- Slade Cecconi
- Tommy Henry
Montgomery, a late spring training signing, has a 5.48 ERA in eight starts. Cecconi, Henry, and Nelson have collectively posted a 5.93 ERA in 19 starts. Walston, who made his MLB debut recently, had an impressive scoreless outing against the Miami Marlins.
Team Performance
Despite Corbin Carroll’s slump, the D-backs are averaging 4.54 runs per game, ranking eighth in MLB. However, their pitching struggles are evident, as they are allowing 4.65 runs per game, the ninth most in baseball. With a 25-32 record, Arizona is 3.5 games back of the third wild-card spot, with five teams ahead of them.
Conclusion
The Diamondbacks face a tough road ahead without their ace, Zac Gallen. With key pitchers already sidelined and their rotation depth being tested, Arizona will need to find ways to stay competitive while hoping for a swift recovery for Gallen and the other injured players.