Zac Gallen draws interest from three MLB teams amid free agency

Right-hander Zac Gallen remains one of the top unsigned free agents as spring training approaches. Three teams—the Diamondbacks, Cubs, and Orioles—are reportedly checking in on the 30-year-old pitcher. Earlier interest came from the Angels and Padres.

Major League Baseball's offseason is nearing its end, with just 12 days until pitchers and catchers report in Florida and Arizona. Despite the slowdown, notable free agents like All-Star starters Framber Valdez and Zac Gallen are still available.

Gallen, who experienced a down year in 2025, was ranked the 18th-best free agent by CBS Sports entering the winter. The New York Post reported on Wednesday evening that the Diamondbacks, Cubs, and Orioles continue to express interest. The Angels and Padres had also made contact earlier in the offseason.

CBS Sports previously noted: "Gallen salvaged what he could with a good 11-start closing stretch, but an otherwise miserable walk year makes him feel like a strong candidate to accept the qualifying offer (if one is tendered) and try again in 2026. Otherwise? He's a candidate to sign a one-year deal elsewhere and modify his arsenal in an attempt to push back against a trend that has seen his performance slip in each of the past two years."

Over his career, Gallen has posted a 3.58 ERA (119 ERA+) and a 3.27 strikeout-to-walk ratio across more than 1,000 innings, contributing an estimated 20.7 Wins Above Replacement according to Baseball Reference. He declined the qualifying offer from the Diamondbacks, which means any team signing him faces potential draft-pick penalties.

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The Chicago Cubs are targeting free agent starting pitcher Zac Gallen as they seek to bolster their rotation this offseason. Gallen, who had a down year with the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2025, has drawn interest from multiple teams including the Cubs, Giants, Angels and Tigers. Recent rumors of a Cubs deal were quickly disputed by insiders.

With less than two weeks until pitchers and catchers report for the 2026 MLB season, several high-profile free agents remain unsigned after three months on the market. Standouts include starting pitchers Framber Valdez and Zac Gallen, who declined qualifying offers, alongside veterans like Justin Verlander and Paul Goldschmidt. The market has slowed, but teams continue to eye options to bolster rosters before Spring Training begins.

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The Atlanta Braves are seeking to bolster their starting rotation amid ongoing free agency pursuits. An MLB.com analysis highlights the team as an ideal destination for former All-Star pitcher Zac Gallen, who struggled in 2025 but offers proven durability. This potential signing could provide depth behind injury-prone aces like Chris Sale and Spencer Schwellenbach.

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The San Diego Padres have agreed to a minor league contract with veteran left-hander Marco Gonzales, adding depth to their starting rotation ahead of spring training. The deal, reported by MLB.com's Mark Feinsand, includes an invitation to big league camp and is worth $1.5 million if Gonzales makes the roster, with up to $1 million in incentives. The club has not yet confirmed the agreement.

The 2025-26 MLB offseason remains sluggish on January 7, with top free agents like Kyle Tucker, Bo Bichette, and Alex Bregman still unsigned. Teams including the Toronto Blue Jays, Chicago Cubs, and New York Mets are exploring options, though luxury tax penalties could double costs for big-market clubs. Discussions focus on trades and signings to bolster infields and rotations amid budget constraints.

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Cody Bellinger has exercised his opt-out clause with the New York Yankees, entering free agency ahead of the 2026 season following a strong performance in his debut year with the team. The 30-year-old outfielder, known for his turbulent career trajectory, now seeks a long-term deal amid interest from multiple clubs. His recent consistency has solidified his value as a versatile contributor.

 

 

 

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