Get ready for an exciting baseball season, folks! The Chicago Cubs are gearing up, with pitchers and catchers reporting on February 11th, and their first full squad workout scheduled for the 16th. It's an optimistic feeling, especially as we approach the start of the 2026 season.
But here's where it gets intriguing: the Cubs have a unique opportunity to strengthen their rotation with Zac Gallen. Gallen, a 30-year-old pitcher, has an impressive track record, having earned Cy Young votes three times. His performance in the second half of the 2025 season was particularly notable, with an ERA of 3.88 and a FIP of 3.77 over his final 16 starts. These numbers are a far cry from his rough first half, showcasing his ability to bounce back and dominate.
And this is the part most people miss: the Cubs' payroll situation. With a significant amount of money coming off the books after this season, the team has the financial flexibility to make some big moves. Among the outgoing free agents are three starting pitchers, creating a potential gap in the rotation. Signing Gallen could be a strategic move, providing stability and depth to the pitching staff.
However, there's a catch. Gallen is likely holding out for a deal without an opt-out after the first year, which the Cubs may not be willing to offer. The team has historically pushed for opt-outs to be included in Year 2, especially for players like Gallen who are connected to draft pick compensation.
But here's the kicker: Gallen has a special connection with the Cubs' catcher, Carson Kelly. Kelly has caught 55 of Gallen's starts, and in those games, Gallen's ERA drops to an impressive 2.81. Opposing batters have a measly .202/.271/.337 slash line against them, better than with any other catcher he's worked with.
So, the question remains: should the Cubs sign Zac Gallen? It's a complex decision with financial and strategic implications. What do you think, baseball fans? Are the Cubs making a mistake by not pursuing Gallen aggressively? Or is there a better move on the horizon? Let's discuss in the comments and share our thoughts on this intriguing situation.
