Cubs Eye Zac Gallen to Strengthen Rotation After Busy Offseason

The Chicago Cubs have been active in reshaping their roster this offseason, highlighted by the signing of third baseman Alex Bregman and the retention of most of last year’s playoff core. With key pieces in place, the team’s focus has now shifted toward bolstering its starting pitching ahead of spring training.

Zac Gallen, formerly of the Arizona Diamondbacks, has emerged as one of the most sought-after arms on the free-agent market. The 29-year-old right-hander carries an average annual value of approximately $18.7 million, according to Spotrac, ranking him third among available pitchers.

While a return to Arizona is still possible due to Gallen’s qualifying offer, the Cubs are reportedly among three teams showing serious interest. A deal with Gallen would mark a major addition to a rotation already showing depth and versatility.

Adding a proven starter like Gallen could give Chicago the pitching stability it needs to complement its offensive upgrades, creating a rotation capable of competing with the league’s elite squads next season.

1. Free-Agent Market and Gallen’s Value

Zac Gallen has been one of the standout names on the free-agent pitching market, combining strikeout ability with consistency over multiple seasons. His availability presents a rare opportunity for teams seeking an experienced, high-quality starter. The Cubs have reportedly pursued Gallen for months, signaling that they view him as a potential cornerstone of their rotation. However, the Diamondbacks’ qualifying offer means a return to Arizona remains a realistic scenario, which could complicate negotiations. Financially, Gallen’s projected salary is within reach for multiple teams, making him one of the more flexible high-end free-agent options. The Cubs are aiming to capitalize on their current roster stability while adding a pitcher who could immediately slot into their top rotation spots. A deal for Gallen would also send a message to the rest of the league: Chicago is committed to contending, complementing their offseason signings with the pitching depth needed for a postseason run.

2. Cubs’ Rotation Depth

Even without Gallen, the Cubs have significant rotation talent. Shota Imanaga anchors the staff, while Matthew Boyd and Jameson Taillon each delivered strong 2025 seasons. Justin Steele is expected to return from injury, and rookie Cade Horton, the 2025 NL Rookie of the Year runner-up, is poised for a larger role. Chicago also added Edward Cabrera via trade, providing another dependable arm. The depth extends beyond the top five, with Colin Rea, Javier Assad, and Steele capable of spot starts or long relief if necessary. If Gallen joins the rotation, the projected top five would likely be: Imanaga, Gallen, Horton, Cabrera, and a combination of Taillon or Boyd. This depth allows for flexibility in matchups and workload management across the season. With a deep and versatile rotation, the Cubs could absorb injuries and maintain consistency while giving their offense—strengthened by Bregman and returning core players—the support needed to contend in a competitive NL Central.

3. Strategic Impact of a Gallen Signing

Bringing in Gallen would elevate Chicago’s rotation from strong to elite, creating a clear top-tier staff capable of challenging league-leading teams. His experience and consistency would complement the Cubs’ mix of young talent and established veterans. The move also reflects the Cubs’ proactive approach this offseason, balancing offensive upgrades with pitching reinforcements. By targeting a free agent like Gallen, the organization is signaling that it views 2026 as a season to compete immediately. Even if a deal does not materialize, the Cubs’ pursuit demonstrates their commitment to improving roster depth and rotation quality, sending a message to fans and opponents alike that the team is focused on long-term contention. Ultimately, Chicago’s potential acquisition of Gallen represents a low-risk, high-reward strategy to solidify a rotation that could carry them deep into the postseason.