MLBTR will release our first Power Rankings of the upcoming free agent class in the next few days. Ordering starting pitchers is often the most challenging part of that process. Next winter's class has a few of those tricky calls -- perhaps none closer than Zac Gallen versus Michael King.
Gallen certainly has the longer track record as an above-average starting pitcher. The righty has started all 146 of his major league appearances. He has been consistently effective, working to a 4.30 ERA or better in all six years (not including this year's 5.28 mark over three starts). Gallen has only once allowed four earned runs per nine in a season. He has punched out at least a quarter of opposing hitters in each year. The result is a 3.33 earned run average with a near-27% strikeout rate in more than 800 career innings.
King has spent the majority of his big league career working out of the bullpen. The Yankees kept him in long relief for most of his first four seasons. It wasn't until the waning weeks of the 2023 season that they gave him a rotation spot, largely because of injuries elsewhere on the pitching staff. King shined in nine starts, was the centerpiece of San Diego's return for Juan Soto, and had a fantastic first full season as a starter.
Over 173 2/3 frames, he turned in a 2.95 ERA while striking out 27.7% of opposing hitters. He showed no signs of slowing down as he pushed well beyond his previous career-high workload. King managed a 2.15 ERA across 62 2/3 innings after the All-Star Break. He finished seventh in NL Cy Young balloting.
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Both similar. Whoever is cheapest.
Although King has better hard hit data and less miles on arm.
Hope my Pads keep King and I wouldn’t even dare sniff Gallen. His best days are presumably either wrapping up soon or behind him.
I knew Pads fans would love King. I shure do miss him, especially this year.
I probably wouldn’t trade for Gallen in my roto leagues, so I wouldn’t suggest signing him either.
Unless injury strikes, Zac Gallen will be the most underpaid ace of the 2026 class—especially if lockout forces teams to trim risk. Durable innings and bankable WAR/IP will outweigh “upside narratives.
Thanks for coming up with more interesting content! Always love these analyses.
I’m guessing Gallen gets the better deal based on track record.