Zac Gallen Signing Embarrassment Avoids Cubs’ Misfortune
The Chicago Cubs recently experienced a significant turn in their pursuit of free agent pitcher Zac Gallen. Despite the mounting speculation about Gallen joining the Cubs, he ultimately decided to re-sign with the Arizona Diamondbacks, a move confirmed on February 14, 2026.
Zac Gallen’s Decision to Stay with Diamondbacks
Zac Gallen, 30, ended the 2025 MLB season in a slump, marking the worst performance of his career. This decline led to a struggling market for the pitcher, opening the possibility for teams like the Cubs to express interest. Bruce Levine, a sports insider, had consistently hinted at Gallen’s potential signing with Chicago, creating excitement among the Cubs’ fan base.
Background on Gallen’s Performance
- Age: 30
- 2025 Season Record: Worst year of his career
- Previous Achievements: Two-time Cy Young Award finalist
- 2025 Mid-Season Bounce Back: Showed signs of improvement
Levine maintained that the Cubs were frontrunners for Gallen, citing conversations with a general manager from another team who made the same claim. However, following the decline in Gallen’s market value, the likelihood of a Cubs deal diminished.
The Implications of Gallen’s Contract
Gallen’s new contract with the Diamondbacks is reportedly worth $22.025 million, equal to the value of the qualifying offer he previously rejected. This contract structure allows him an opportunity to re-establish his value before entering free agency again.
Cubs’ Perspective
The Cubs had genuine interest in Gallen, and a signing would have made sense strategically. As several current veteran starters approach free agency in 2027, acquiring Gallen could have provided valuable depth for the team’s rotation.
- Current Veteran Starters: Three approaching free agency in 2027
- Team Strategy: Positional depth for the future
However, with Gallen looking to improve his market situation, it became clear a short-term deal was more advantageous for him. The Cubs, led by General Manager Jed Hoyer, were not inclined to offer any structure that would risk a draft pick for just one additional season of Gallen.
Conclusion
In summary, while Zac Gallen’s signing with the Diamondbacks is a setback for the Cubs, it underscores the complexities of player contracts and market dynamics in Major League Baseball. Gallen will now have a year to prove his worth, while the Cubs will continue their search for pitching talent.
