From Underdogs to Retirement: The Rise and Fall of Zac Gallen and Stephen Strasburg in Baseball

In 2024, the Arizona Diamondbacks are once again underdogs, despite not being favored by Vegas to make it back. But pitcher Zac Gallen is not deterred by the odds and embraces the role of an underdog with determination. Meanwhile, on the other side of the country, Washington Nationals’ pitcher Stephen Strasburg has officially retired after a career plagued by injuries. Despite his retirement, Strasburg will still receive the remaining $105 million from his original $245 million contract.

Injuries had prevented Strasburg from fully returning to form, and he did not report to spring training in either 2023 or 2024. His future with the team remained uncertain as he hung up his cleats for good. As his career comes to an end, it remains unclear if the Nationals will hold a retirement ceremony for him. Regardless of whether celebrated or quietly acknowledged, Strasburg’s career will be marked by both his talent on the mound and unfortunate injury setbacks.