Gallen Reclaims Ace Status with New Pitching Strategy
The Arizona Diamondbacks are witnessing a resurgence from their right-handed ace, Zac Gallen, and manager Torey Lovullo has a theory about the transformation. After a season filled with ups and downs, Gallen is once again showcasing the skills that made him a formidable presence on the mound.
Gallen’s Journey Back to Dominance
For much of the early season, Gallen struggled to find the rhythm that had previously defined his career. While confidence in his abilities never faltered, he faced frustrations. Game-changing home runs and ill-timed hard contact often thwarted his efforts. Yet, despite these challenges, Gallen maintained a strong mental presence on the mound, refusing to let setbacks define his performance.
Describing himself as a “tinkerer,” Gallen is always in pursuit of ways to refine his craft. Recently, he has introduced a new weapon to his pitching arsenal: a two-seam fastball. This addition has the potential to unlock a new level of effectiveness, and Lovullo believes it has been a game changer.
Lovullo’s Insights on Gallen’s Evolution
Lovullo expressed his excitement about Gallen’s development during a recent interview. “I think the one thing that has really pushed him to the next level is a two-seam fastball,” he shared, emphasizing its impact on Gallen’s ability to challenge hitters. The two-seamer complements Gallen’s established four-seam fastball, which he can use to target the upper part of the strike zone. This new pitch not only diversifies his approach but also creates a dynamic threat for opposing batters.
The manager elaborated on the benefits this new pitch brings. “That’s going to be running in on right-handed batters. He’s got the four-seam that travels up at the top of the zone, and now he’s got a two-seam fastball that’s kind of wrapped in barbed wire coming out of right-handers’ hands,” Lovullo noted. This multifaceted approach has expanded Gallen’s effectiveness, allowing him to exploit various areas of the strike zone.
The Importance of the Fastball
Gallen’s fastball has always served as a critical benchmark for his overall performance. When it’s on, his other pitches become nearly unhittable, creating a formidable challenge for hitters. The recent adjustments, particularly with the introduction of the two-seam fastball, may signal a turning point in Gallen’s season.
As he continues to refine his game, Gallen’s ability to execute this new pitch will be pivotal. With Lovullo’s support and a renewed sense of purpose, Gallen is poised to solidify his status as one of the premier pitchers in the league once again. The Diamondbacks are hopeful that this evolution will translate into success on the field as they navigate the challenges of the season ahead.
