Nightengale's Notebook: D-backs ace Zac Gallen erasing all doubt that he's one of baseball's best
Gallen was terrific in his first two seasons, but had 2021 derailed by injuries. Now, he's got a 1.05 ERA.
Bob NightengalePHOENIX — Go ahead, keep ignoring him.
Please, keep believing it’s a fluke.
Laugh when he’s mentioned in Cy Young conversations.
And don’t regard him as one of the elite pitchers in his own division, let alone worthy of being on the All-Star team this summer at Dodger Stadium.
Arizona Diamondbacks starter Zac Gallen is listening, watching, reading, and absolutely thriving on all the doubts directed his way.
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“I’ve had a chip on my shoulder ever since I can remember, even back in Little League,’’ Gallen tells USA TODAY Sports. “I was too small. I was right-handed. I played in the Northeast. I’m not a prospect. I’ll peak when I’m 23 years old. I’ll never be more than a third or fourth starter. I’ve heard it all.’’