It looks like a new chapter in the rivalry between the Mets and the Yankees is about to be written. In this market period, both would focus their attention on the National League West to acquire a pitching gem who is characterized by his refined arm. The battle in New York for this player would begin.
According to offseason rumors, the two organizations are eyeing Zac Gallen, the Arizona Diamondbacks’ “all-around” pitcher. Their interest in him lies in one of his main virtues, pitching under pressure. He possesses dominant composure in adverse circumstances and situations, which gives him a high profile.
To this quality are added three other qualities that attract attention and steal the admiration of other teams:
- Master the strike zone.
- Keeps calm in critical moments.
- He is a leader with mettle and character in the dressing room.
Gallen is a free agent. His fastball averages 93.5 mph. His average home runs allowed went from 0.8 per nine innings in 2024 to 1.5 in 2025. His strikeout percentage fell to an all-time low of 21.5%, which was five percentage points below his career average at the start of the season.
The rivalry between the Mets and Yankees
In the first instance, it is said that the Mets would offer a contract of large amounts with a long-term estimate. In the event of an offer from the Yankees, they would be willing to raise the figure. They will press until the end for Zac Gallen to sign with them.
But the Yankees will not give up so easily either. Because their reliance on Garret Cole has become exaggerated and demanding, they would go for “the tough guy” from Arizona. They would wait to see what the Mets propose to the player in order to counter and offer a better contract.
Zac Gallen, the personality they want in New York
Although the Diamondbacks finished the 2025 season in fourth place in their division below the San Francisco Giants and above the Colorado Rockies, the performance of their pitcher did not go unnoticed.
What attracts MLB teams, including the Mets and Yankees, is his character. Unlike other pitchers who get nervous in complex conditions, he is unfazed. Whether it’s because of the game, the performance of his teammates, the weather, the hostility of fans, whatever it is, Gallen has become known for perfectly handling chaotic moments and leading his team mentally and emotionally when everything seems to be going downhill.
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