The Chicago Cubs have been actively reshaping their roster this offseason, making significant moves to bolster their lineup and pitching staff. After signing star infielder Alex Bregman and acquiring right-hander Edward Cabrera via trade, the franchise is now setting its sights on another key addition: starting pitcher Zac Gallen. While no deal has been finalized yet, reports indicate that Chicago is among the serious contenders engaged in discussions with the veteran hurler.
Contract Structure and Strategic Approach
The Cubs are exploring a shorter-term agreement with Gallen, a strategy designed to add a proven starter without committing to a lengthy contract. This approach would provide flexibility for both parties, allowing the team to remain competitive while managing future payroll and roster decisions. Gallen, who recently declined a qualifying offer from the Arizona Diamondbacks, comes with the caveat that any signing team would forfeit a high draft pick, making teams cautious about long-term offers.
Expected Deal Framework
The anticipated contract is projected to span approximately three years, with a total value ranging between $66 million and $74 million. A crucial element of this agreement would be an opt-out clause after the second season. This provision would enable Gallen to re-enter free agency early if he performs well, potentially securing a more lucrative deal elsewhere. Conversely, if he struggles, the Cubs would avoid being locked into a long-term commitment, mitigating financial risk.
The commonly discussed terms include:
- A three-year duration
- Opt-out option after Year 2
- No deferred salary components
- Slotting into the rotation as the No. 2 or No. 3 starter
Rotation Fit and Team Dynamics
Signing Gallen would require Chicago to sacrifice a top draft pick, but it would significantly elevate the quality of their pitching staff. The Cubs currently feature Shota Imanaga as their ace, supported by Cabrera, Matthew Boyd, and Jameson Taillon, with Justin Steele expected to return from injury. Adding Gallen would introduce another experienced arm capable of handling substantial workloads, providing depth that is invaluable over a grueling 162-game season and in high-pressure playoff scenarios.
Benefits for the Chicago Cubs
Zac Gallen brings a track record of success, having finished in the top ten of Cy Young Award voting multiple times. Prior to a challenging 2025 campaign, he delivered three consecutive seasons with ERAs of 3.65 or lower. A return to that form would give the Cubs a frontline starter, enhancing their rotation's overall potency. Moreover, his presence offers insurance against injuries or performance slumps, ensuring the team maintains competitive pitching options throughout the year.
This potential signing aligns with the Cubs' aggressive offseason strategy, signaling their intent to compete immediately in the coming seasons. Following the acquisitions of Bregman and Cabrera, adding Gallen would further demonstrate the organization's commitment to building a contender.
Advantages for Zac Gallen
For Gallen, joining the Cubs presents an opportunity to play for a competitive team rather than a rebuilding squad. This environment allows him to pitch in meaningful games and pursue a World Series title. The short-term deal with an opt-out clause safeguards his future, enabling him to re-enter free agency in his early thirties if he performs well, potentially securing a longer contract. Additionally, he would join a rotation with other capable starters, alleviating the pressure to carry the staff single-handedly.
Performance Analysis and Risk Assessment
Gallen's career statistics are impressive, featuring a 3.58 ERA, 1.10 WHIP, and a high strikeout rate. He has demonstrated durability by logging multiple 200-inning seasons and remains in his prime age range. However, his 2025 performance was notably subpar compared to previous years, raising concerns about potential decline or durability issues stemming from heavy past workloads.
Recent Performance Snapshot
Over the past five seasons, Gallen has shown consistency with occasional fluctuations:
- 2021: 2.75 ERA, 147 innings pitched, top-10 Cy Young finish
- 2022: 3.43 ERA, 200 innings pitched, workhorse role
- 2023: 3.47 ERA, 207 innings pitched, another strong year
- 2024: 3.65 ERA, 193 innings pitched, slight decline but elite performance
- 2025: 4.83 ERA, 173 innings pitched, down year with struggles
Projected 2026 Rotation Outlook
If Gallen joins the Cubs, the rotation could shape up as follows:
- Shota Imanaga (Age 27): No. 1 starter with elite control and ground-ball tendencies
- Zac Gallen (Age 30): No. 2 starter and bounce-back candidate
- Edward Cabrera (Age 27): No. 3 starter with power arm from trade
- Matthew Boyd (Age 34): No. 4 starter, veteran lefty providing steady innings
- Jameson Taillon (Age 34): No. 5 starter, experienced back-end option
Overall Impact and Strategic Implications
Signing Zac Gallen represents a calculated gamble for the Chicago Cubs. If he reverts to his earlier form, the team gains a top-tier starter without a long-term commitment, potentially elevating them into the ranks of serious contenders. However, if his 2025 struggles persist, the Cubs would incur a high salary cost and lose a valuable draft pick for a mid-rotation performer.
This move underscores a win-now mentality, balancing short-term upside against long-term risk. The contract structure limits potential downside while offering substantial rewards if Gallen rebounds. For a franchise eager to return to championship contention, this trade-off appears logical, and if successful, it could provide Wrigley Field fans with a rotation deep enough to challenge any opponent in Major League Baseball.
