The Arizona Diamondbacks have just kicked off the 2025 MLB season, but they’re already making moves to lock in a key part of their future. The team has agreed to a five-year, $45 million contract extension with right-handed starting pitcher Brandon Pfaadt, according to the D-backs’ official X account.
Zac Gallen, who struggled in a 10-6 Opening Day loss to the Chicago Cubs on Thursday, is set to hit free agency at the end of the season. By securing a deal with the 26-year-old Brandon Pfaadt, Arizona appears to be safeguarding itself in case Gallen departs.
Diamondbacks general manager Mike Hazen made a savvy move by extending Corbin Carroll before his 2023 Rookie of the Year season, and now he’s looking to secure another young, promising talent in Brandon Pfaadt. Despite posting a 5.06 ERA across 51 career games, Pfaadt has earned Arizona’s confidence with his poise in high-pressure situations and steady improvement. According to FanSided’s Robert Murray, his new contract includes a $21 million club option for 2031 and a $25 million mutual option for 2032.
Diamondbacks have trusted Brandon Pfaadt in crucial moments
Pfaadt carved out a significant role in Arizona’s pitching staff in 2023, stepping in as the No. 3 starter during the Diamondbacks’ thrilling National League pennant run. While he wasn’t a workhorse, he provided crucial innings that allowed manager Torey Lovullo to better manage his bullpen, especially during a period when the starting rotation lacked depth.
Brandon Pfaadt played a pivotal role in the NL Championship Series against the Philadelphia Phillies, surrendering just two runs while striking out 16 batters over 9 2/3 innings in two starts. His four-inning performance in Game 7 at a hostile Citizens Bank Park was a prime example of a showing that carried far more significance than the stat sheet suggests. Simply put, the Diamondbacks wouldn’t have made their way to the World Series without him.
Pfaadt struggled with consistency in 2024, posting a 4.71 ERA over 32 starts. However, he racked up 185 strikeouts and demonstrated solid command—both promising signs that he has the potential to develop into a reliable fixture in Arizona’s rotation.
That’s exactly what the Diamondbacks are betting on. If the Louisville, Kentucky native continues to progress in his third MLB season, Arizona’s rotation—featuring Corbin Burnes, Zac Gallen, Merrill Kelly, and Eduardo Rodriguez—has the potential to become one of the most dominant pitching staffs in baseball.
Pfaadt will look to justify Arizona’s confidence right away as he takes the mound for his season debut against the Cubs on Saturday night.
