UNC Baseball: Zac Gallen named NL All-Star starting pitcher

The former UNC baseball star will be on the mound to start the game for the National League in the 2023 MLB All-Star game in Seattle.

It’s one thing to make an MLB All-Star game appearance- that is simply tough to do in itself.

To be selected to start the game on the mound that’s a whole other level!

Former UNC baseball star Zac Gallen was named the National League’s starting pitcher for the 2023 MLB All-Star Game, which will be held on Tuesday, July 11, in Seattle. The announcement came when National League manager Rob Thompson (Phillies) met with the media on Monday afternoon.

Gallen will become the fourth UNC baseball player ever to start an All-Star Game, joining Walt Weiss (1998), Brian Roberts (2005), and most recently Matt Harvey (2013). He’ll be matched up with Gerrit Cole of the New York Yankees as the two aces will get the “Midsummer Classic” underway.

The 27-year-old has developed into one of the game’s best-starting pitchers and has solidified himself as the Diamondbacks’ ace. In 19 starts this season, the former Diamond Heel has an outstanding 11-3 record with a 3.04 ERA over 118.1 innings pitched.

What a special moment for Gallen, as he’s not only making his first All-Star Game appearance but will also have the honor of starting the game. Fans of the UNC baseball program should be tuned in early to see Zac Gallen represent the Diamond Heels on one of baseball’s biggest stages.

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