Heading into the offseason, the Chicago Cubs were widely expected to be aggressive in free agency—and they have lived up to that billing.
Although much of the attention has centered on the addition of Alex Bregman, Jed Hoyer’s most impactful work may have come on the mound. Re-signing Shota Imanaga and acquiring Edward Cabrera strengthened the rotation considerably. Even so, Chicago continued to be linked to Arizona Diamondbacks ace , the top remaining starter on the market.
The Cubs and Gallen were connected throughout the winter, with the organization openly expressing a desire to add more pitching. However, now that spring training is underway, Sahadev Sharma of The Athletic reports that a deal appears unlikely.
Sharma noted that as Gallen’s free agency drags on, concerns grow about whether he can properly ramp up without a normal spring training. A one-year contract—or one with an opt-out—would also require forfeiting a draft pick, which diminishes its appeal. Other teams may ultimately present a more logical landing spot.
That represents a notable shift after months of speculation tying Chicago to the right-hander. The draft-pick compensation tied to Arizona’s qualifying offer has been an under-the-radar factor and may help explain why Gallen remains unsigned.
Beyond that, each passing day of spring training makes the situation more complicated. Teams are unlikely to commit significant money to a pitcher who may not be fully ready when the season begins.
While adding Gallen would further bolster what is already one of baseball’s deeper rotations, there comes a point when Chicago must focus on the arms already in camp. Surrendering a draft pick and committing a likely eight-figure salary for a short-term deal—especially for a pitcher potentially behind schedule—is rarely a move contenders make.
At this stage, it would be somewhat surprising to see the Cubs make a renewed push. Moving on may ultimately be the most practical outcome for both sides, even though Gallen could still provide value. If no agreement is reached soon, Chicago fans may have to accept that the 30-year-old won’t be joining the rotation after all.
