As the Miami Marlins continue to sell off nearly every high-level player they have under a new ownership group including former Yankee legend Derek Jeter, a recent UNC standout found his way into the drama on Wednesday.

Right-handed starting pitcher Zac Gallen was part of a four-player package sent from the St. Louis Cardinals to Miami in exchange for All-Star left fielder Marcell Ozuna.

This deal came just days after Jeter sent last season’s National League MVP–power-hitting right fielder Giancarlo Stanton–from Miami to his old team in New York.

Gallen was a third-round selection by the Cardinals in the 2016 MLB Draft following a stellar career at UNC–serving as the Tar Heels’ Friday starter for two of his three seasons in Chapel Hill.

Known for his outstanding control, the New Jersey native has carved out plenty of success for himself despite a fastball that sits in the low 90s and a pitch repertoire that isn’t particularly overpowering.

Gallen spent the end of this past season in Triple-A with the Memphis Redbirds. In 20.2 innings with the team, he posted a 3.48 ERA with 23 strikeouts.

With the Marlins’ new ownership continuing to shed salary in favor of cheap, young labor, it’s possible that Gallen will get a chance to see time in the major leagues as soon as next season.

 

 

Photo via Redbirddaily.com

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