The Rise of Baseball’s Unsung Hero: Zac Gallen’s Underdog Motivation

Arizona Diamondbacks Pitcher Zac Gallen Prepares for National League Championship Series

By | New York Times

October 16, 2023

Introduction

Arizona Diamondbacks starting pitcher Zac Gallen is returning to his hometown of Philadelphia to start Game One of the 2023 National League Championship Series against the Philadelphia Phillies. Growing up just 30 minutes away from Citizens Bank Park, Gallen’s homecoming is more about business than celebration. However, he is facing a myriad of emotions as he navigates the familiarity of his surroundings and the demands of his family and friends for tickets. Despite these distractions, Gallen remains focused on maintaining a routine that promotes a winning culture.

Embracing the Underdog Role

Gallen and the Diamondbacks have embraced the underdog role this postseason. They have used the phrase “house money” to describe their unexpected success, as they were not expected to pass the Milwaukee Brewers in the National League Wild Card Series and then went on to defeat the Los Angeles Dodgers in the National League Division Series. With a 5-0 record so far in the postseason, the Diamondbacks’ recipe for success lies in their youthful exuberance, maturity beyond their years, and aggressive style of play. According to Baseball-Reference, they are the first team since the Dodgers in 2008 to compete in a League Championship Series with only 84 regular season wins.

Striving for Postseason Success

Gallen aims to follow in the footsteps of former Diamondbacks pitchers Randy Johnson and Curt Schilling, who led the franchise to their only World Series title in 2001. His talent is finally receiving national praise and recognition, and he has become known as one of the elite starting pitchers in Major League Baseball. Gallen’s previous performances at Citizens Bank Park have been solid, and he looks to continue his success in front of the home crowd.

Pitching with a Plan

Renowned analyst and Hall of Fame pitcher Pedro Martinez has been impressed with Gallen’s approach this postseason. Martinez lauds Gallen’s old-school mentality and refers to him as a “genetic pitcher.” Despite his relatively young career, Gallen possesses the poise and experience of a veteran. He adheres to a blueprint for success that includes elements such as pitch sequencing, outthinking opponents, and maintaining an effortless approach. Gallen’s performance in Game Two of the National League Division Series, where he threw three consecutive knuckle curveballs to strike out Freddie Freeman, exemplifies his ability to trust in his pitches and make critical decisions under pressure.

A Big Game Pitcher

Gallen embodies the qualities of a big game pitcher, exemplifying confidence and high energy. As the Diamondbacks continue to make noise this postseason, Gallen’s cerebral approach and attention to detail will serve him well. Despite the raucous crowds at Citizens Bank Park, Gallen is expected to thrive in an environment that provides him with a unique home field advantage.

Conclusion

As Zac Gallen prepares to return home and face the Philadelphia Phillies in the National League Championship Series, he is focused on maintaining his routine and staying true to the success that has brought the Diamondbacks this far. With his poised demeanor, tactical pitching approach, and ability to thrive under pressure, Gallen has the potential to lead his team to victory. Regardless of the outcome, his performance in this postseason has solidified his status as one of the premier pitchers in Major League Baseball.