The Chicago Cubs are reportedly targeting free agent pitcher Zac Gallen as part of their strategy to bolster their pitching staff. This move comes as the team seeks to address a potential weakness in their rotation, following an uncharacteristically poor performance in 2025. Despite a career-worst year, Gallen's durability and high-level potential make him an intriguing free agent option ahead of the Winter Meetings.
Gallen's partnership with catcher Carson Kelly, a current Cub and former Diamondback, has been productive, resulting in a 2.81 ERA during his time in Arizona. The Cubs aim to sign Gallen to a contract that will help them recapture his top-of-the-rotation form, with a potential reference point being the three-year, $75 million contract signed by Sean Manaea with the New York Mets. The team's focus on adding another starting pitcher and the impending free agency of Shota Imanaga, Jameson Taillon, and Matthew Boyd further emphasizes the importance of this acquisition.
The Cubs' willingness to sign a free agent from the qualifying offer category, despite the associated draft and international market penalties, highlights their determination to strengthen their pitching staff. With Gallen's track record and potential, the team is confident in his ability to contribute to their success in the upcoming season and beyond.
