As Spring Training officially kicks off, the MLB free-agent market is finally seeing movement on its biggest remaining prize. After a surprisingly quiet winter for former Arizona Diamondbacks ace Zac Gallen, reports indicate that talks are “heating up” as teams look to solidify their rotations before Opening Day.
While Gallen’s 2025 campaign (4.83 ERA over 192 innings) was a departure from his usual Cy Young-caliber dominance, his track record as a workhorse makes him an enticing “buy-low” candidate for contenders.
According to recent reports from USA Today’s Bob Nightengale, three specific teams have emerged as frontrunners to land the 30-year-old righty.
1. Baltimore Orioles
After missing out on Framber Valdez (who recently signed with Detroit), the Orioles are still hunting for a front-line starter to pair with Kyle Bradish and Zach Eflin.
The Fit: Baltimore has the offensive firepower—led by Pete Alonso and Adley Rutschman—but their rotation depth remains a question mark. Gallen represents a significant upgrade over back-end options like Dean Kremer.
The Strategy: General Manager Mike Elias has been “staying plugged in” to the market. Given that the Orioles have already committed nearly $200 million this winter, adding Gallen would be the ultimate “all-in” move to secure the AL East.
2. Chicago Cubs
The Cubs have been aggressive this offseason, already making waves by signing Alex Bregman and trading for Edward Cabrera. However, the rotation still feels one piece away from being truly elite.
The Fit: With Justin Steele and Cabrera at the top, Gallen would provide a veteran floor that Chicago currently lacks.
The Hurdle: The Cubs are reportedly wary of the draft-pick compensation tied to Gallen (who rejected a qualifying offer). However, with news that Atlanta Braves’ Spencer Schwellenbach will miss significant time, the Cubs may feel pressured to move quickly before a division rival outbids them.
3. San Diego Padres
A.J. Preller is never one to sit out a high-stakes negotiation, especially when it comes to starting pitching. The Padres are looking to replenish a staff that has seen significant turnover.
The Fit: San Diego thrives on high-upside arms, and Gallen’s career 3.58 ERA suggests his 2025 struggles were an outlier. Moving from the hitter-friendly Chase Field to Petco Park could be exactly what “The Milkman” needs to regain his All-Star form.
The Waiting Game: While some local reports suggest the Padres are waiting for the price to drop, they remain one of the few teams with the infrastructure to support a late-spring blockbuster signing.
The Verdict
With pitchers and catchers reporting tomorrow, Gallen remains one of the best remaining available MLB free agents and is expected to find a home soon. Whether it’s a long-term deal or a high-AAV “prove-it” contract with an opt-out, his arrival will immediately shift the balance of power in whichever division he lands.
