The Chicago Cubs made notable moves this offseason by signing Alex Bregman and acquiring Edward Cabrera in a trade, yet they may not be finished adding to their rotation.
Speaking on MLB Network, insider Jon Heyman said the Cubs are still looking for starting pitching and identified them as a possible landing spot for former All-Star Zac Gallen. Gallen has a qualifying offer attached, which could make a deal more complicated.
Chicago is expected to begin the season without Justin Steele. While the rotation currently includes Cabrera, Matthew Boyd, Cade Horton, and Shōta Imanaga, adding Gallen could provide much-needed stability. Jameson Taillon, Colin Rea, and Javier Assad offer reliability, but Gallen would bring true top-end talent.
Cubs Sign Zac Gallen to a two-year deal with an opt-out after next season
Gallen is not coming off his best season. He had a 4.83 ERA in 33 starts. However, he had a 3.88 ERA after July 1. He could want to reestablish some value and hit the market again after next season.
The Cubs are chasing the Milwaukee Brewers in the National League Central and have already made two big moves to help them. Adding Gallen on a short-term deal would help cover the loss of Steele and provide the Cubs with depth for the rest of the season as well.
Gallen has received Cy Young Award votes in three separate seasons and could be a high-upside addition for any team in free agency.
