The Chicago Cubs are reportedly eyeing Zac Gallen as part of their plan to bolster the starting rotation for the 2026 season. While Gallen may not be the Cubs’ top priority — behind Tatsuya Imai, Michael King, and potential trade options — the team’s interest in the right-hander is real, offering hope for a rebound after a tough 2025.
The 30-year-old struggled last year with a 4.83 ERA over 33 starts for the Arizona Diamondbacks. His peripheral stats reflected similar struggles, with a 4.28 xERA, 4.50 FIP, and 4.12 xFIP. Gallen also allowed 31 home runs in 192 innings, ranking fourth among qualified MLB pitchers in homers allowed per nine innings.
Despite that rough season, Gallen has a proven track record. Between 2019–2023, he posted a 3.21 ERA with a 26.9% strikeout rate, and in 2024, he maintained a 3.65 ERA and 25.1% K rate. His main issue recently has been an elevated walk rate, which exceeded 8% in both 2024 and 2025.
There are signs of optimism heading into 2026. Gallen finished last season strong, posting a 3.32 ERA over his final 11 starts (65 innings). Plus, the Cubs’ catcher Carson Kelly could be the key to unlocking Gallen’s potential. During their time together in Arizona, Gallen recorded a 2.81 ERA in 327 innings when throwing to Kelly, who recently signed a two-year deal with Chicago, including a mutual option for 2027.
Given the abundance of free-agent pitching options and Gallen’s down year, a short-term deal with an early opt-out could benefit both sides. The Cubs would gain a potential ace for 2026, while Gallen could rebuild his market and remain young enough to test free agency again next year if needed.
With Kelly behind the plate — who posted a 3.61 catcher ERA in 2025, leading the Cubs’ staff — and Gallen potentially returning to form, this pairing could be the perfect storm to strengthen Chicago’s rotation.
