Zac Gallen prepares confidently for Diamondbacks’ Opening Day start. [Image Source: NEWSWEEK]
In Scottsdale, the Arizona Diamondbacks’ plans for Opening Day pitching have been thrown into uncertainty after news emerged that projected starter Merrill Kelly will not be available to take the mound against the Los Angeles Dodgers. Right-handed pitcher Zac Gallen, known for his reliability and ace status with the team, remains focused on preparation despite the sudden shift.
Kelly, who had re-signed with the Diamondbacks on a two-year deal in December, was expected to anchor the rotation as the team battles for position in the competitive National League West, especially with Corbin Burnes still recovering from Tommy John surgery. However, the timeline for Kelly’s return is now unclear, forcing the team to reconsider its starting pitcher for the season opener.
Zac Gallen’s Steady Approach Amid Changing Roles
Though Gallen has served as the Diamondbacks’ Opening Day starter for the past three seasons, the possibility of stepping back into that role this year due to Kelly’s absence is not something currently occupying his mind. After making his 2026 spring trainingdebut on February 25 at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick, Gallen emphasized his focus remains on staying ready and healthy rather than on specific dates or titles.
“I haven’t even crossed that mind,”
Gallen said following his first outing, according to Arizona Sports.
Image of: Zac Gallen
“Like, just tried to be sympathetic to Merrill and just kind of, you know, offer him some input when he thought it was something that seemed similar or something I might have had a few years ago. Just, yeah, just tried to be there for him.”
He also added,
“I haven’t thought about that at all. For me, it’s just what’s going to be the healthiest way to get ready for, you know, my first start, whatever that is.”
Impact of Recent Injuries on Diamondbacks’ Pitching Staff
The Diamondbacks are continuing to face challenges with injuries affecting key pitchers, complicating their rotation plans further. Merrill Kelly joins a list of valuable players sidelined in recent seasons, forcing Arizona to adjust frequently to keep its pitching staff competitive. The ongoing health struggles have sparked frustration among fans and observers alike.
Social media reactions highlight this pattern of injuries. A fan wrote,
“Injuries 🤝 Arizona sports Always a problem. Such a bummer. Sounds like Gallen will be the opening day starter.”
Another comment reflected on the team’s injury history:
“Arizona sports in a nutshell.”
A third user added,
“Every year is always the pitchers that get hurt for the Diamondbacks 🤦♂️.”
Looking Ahead: What the Future Holds for the Diamondbacks’ Rotation
The Diamondbacks have yet to confirm who will officially start Opening Day, as uncertainty around Merrill Kelly’s health persists. Regardless of when Gallen begins the season, his approach centers on readiness and flexibility, prioritizing the team’s needs over personal accolades.
With Corbin Burnes’ recovery timeline still ongoing and Kelly’s delayed availability, Arizona’s pitching staff faces a challenging start to the season. How the team manages these setbacks will be crucial in their bid to remain competitive in the tough National League West division. Gallen’s steady presence offers a reassuring element as the Diamondbacks navigate the unpredictable early months.
Injuries 🤝 Arizona sports
Always a problem. Such a bummer. Sounds like Gallen will be the opening day starter https://t.co/uBPMXAzXF2
