As the 2025 MLB free agency period approaches, the debate over who will top the list of available starting pitchers is heating up.
With MLB Trade Rumors set to release their first Power Rankings of the upcoming free agent class, one of the most intriguing comparisons is between Zac Gallen and Michael King.
Both pitchers have shown remarkable talent and consistency, but their career paths and recent performances make this a particularly tough call.
Let’s dive into the details and see what makes this comparison so fascinating.
The Case for Zac Gallen
Zac Gallen has been a model of consistency since making his major league debut.
Over his six-year career, Gallen has maintained an ERA of 4.30 or better in each season, not counting his current year’s 5.28 mark over three starts.
His ability to consistently perform at a high level makes him a valuable asset for any team looking to bolster their rotation.
Track Record and Consistency
Gallen has started all 146 of his major league appearances, demonstrating his reliability as a starting pitcher.
He has only once allowed four earned runs per nine innings in a season, showcasing his ability to limit damage effectively.
His career statistics are impressive:
Find the best accommodations
Check availability at 5* hotels, guest houses and apartments rated "superb" or "exceptional" by visitors just like you.
NO RESERVATION FEES
CHECK AVAILABILITY FOR YOUR DATES HERE
- 3.33 ERA over more than 800 innings
- 27% strikeout rate, consistently punching out at least a quarter of opposing hitters each year
These numbers highlight Gallen’s sustained excellence and make a compelling case for him as a top-tier free agent pitcher.
The Rise of Michael King
Michael King’s journey to becoming a premier starting pitcher has been quite different from Gallen’s.
Initially used as a long reliever by the Yankees, King only transitioned to a starting role in the latter part of the 2023 season due to injuries in the pitching staff.
However, his performance since then has been nothing short of spectacular.
Transition to Starting Role
King’s transition to a starting role was a revelation.
Over nine starts at the end of the 2023 season, he shined brightly, catching the attention of the San Diego Padres, who acquired him as the centerpiece in the trade for Juan Soto.
His first full season as a starter was a resounding success:
- 2.95 ERA over 173 2/3 innings
- 27.7% strikeout rate, slightly edging out Gallen’s career average
King’s ability to maintain a high level of performance despite the increased workload is a testament to his resilience and skill.
Comparative Analysis
When comparing Gallen and King, several factors come into play, including their career trajectories, recent performances, and potential future impact.
Both pitchers have their unique strengths and have shown they can be dominant forces on the mound.
Career Trajectories
Gallen’s career has been marked by steady, reliable performance. His long track record as a starter makes him a known quantity, which can be very appealing to teams looking for a dependable rotation piece.
On the other hand, King’s rise has been more meteoric. His rapid transition from reliever to elite starter showcases his adaptability and potential for further growth.
Recent Performances
In terms of recent performances, King has the edge with his stellar 2.95 ERA over a full season as a starter.
His post-All-Star Break performance was particularly impressive, with a 2.15 ERA over 62 2/3 innings, indicating he can maintain his effectiveness over an extended period.
Gallen, while consistent, has had a slightly rougher start to the current season with a 5.28 ERA over three starts. However, his overall career numbers still make him a formidable option.
Future Impact
Looking ahead, both pitchers have the potential to significantly impact any team they join.
Gallen’s consistent track record suggests he will continue to be a reliable starter, while King’s recent breakout indicates he could become one of the league’s elite pitchers if he maintains his current trajectory.
Potential Suitors
Several teams will likely be interested in both Gallen and King, depending on their specific needs and strategies.
Teams looking for a proven, consistent starter may lean towards Gallen, while those willing to bet on potential and recent performance might favor King.
Either way, both pitchers are set to be highly sought after in the upcoming free agency period.
Conclusion
The debate between Zac Gallen and Michael King as the top free agent starting pitcher for the 2025 class is a fascinating one. Gallen’s long track record of consistency and reliability contrasts with King’s rapid rise and recent dominance.
Both pitchers bring unique strengths to the table, making them valuable assets for any team. As the free agency period approaches, it will be interesting to see how teams weigh these factors and which pitcher ultimately emerges as the top choice.
For more in-depth analysis and updates on this topic, be sure to check out the full article on MLB Trade Rumors.
- Schools Covered
- College Football Articles
- Men's College Basketball Articles
- Men's College Soccer Articles
- Women's College Basketball Articles
- Olympic Athlete Articles
- Men's College Baseball Articles
- College Sports Media Professionals Articles
- Hall of Fame Member Articles
- Former College Player Articles
- Game Previews