The Chicago Cubs once again found themselves circulating in the rumor mill earlier this week, tied to the biggest remaining name in free agency. With the right-hander still unsigned, Chicago has been viewed as one of the primary suitors. Now, however, one of their chief competitors appears to have exited the race after choosing to address its rotation with a different veteran option.
The Baltimore Orioles, a team desperate for pitching as they try to position themselves for a 2026 run, have shifted direction. Baltimore entered last season with lofty expectations, but the year unraveled quickly. Just two weeks before Memorial Day, manager Brandon Hyde was dismissed. After back-to-back postseason appearances, the Orioles stumbled to a sub-.500 finish in 2025. Their starting rotation combined for a 4.65 ERA, ranking 24th in Major League Baseball and the third-worst mark in the American League.
Frustration among the fan base has been directed squarely at the front office, particularly over what many perceive as a lack of urgency in upgrading the rotation. That dissatisfaction helped keep the Orioles connected to Gallen rumors throughout the offseason. Baltimore did bring back Zach Eflin and acquired Shane Baz via trade, but the club ultimately declined to meet Gallen’s asking price.
Instead, the Orioles opted for Chris Bassitt on a one-year deal. The move reflects a preference for stability. Bassitt has made at least 30 starts in each of the past four seasons, throwing more than 170 innings annually while keeping his ERA below 4.00. For Baltimore, it represents a safer, high-floor investment.
With the Orioles pivoting, the list of realistic destinations for Zac Gallen has narrowed. USA Today’s Bob Nightengale previously identified the Cubs, San Diego Padres, Arizona Diamondbacks, and Orioles as the most interested teams. Baltimore can now effectively be removed from that group.
For Chicago, adding Gallen continues to make considerable sense
Although the Cubs appear deep on paper heading into 2026, there are notable concerns beneath the surface. The organization boasts experienced starters, versatile swingmen, and promising prospects nearing the majors. However, durability remains a significant question mark.
Justin Steele is working his way back from elbow surgery and is not expected to return before May. Edward Cabrera has a history of injured list stints and has surpassed 100 major league innings just once. Matthew Boyd enjoyed an excellent 2025 campaign, but it was his first fully healthy season since 2019.
Jameson Taillon has dealt with multiple injuries during his time in Chicago. Cade Horton missed most of the 2024 season with a shoulder issue. Even Shōta Imanaga, who has generally avoided arm trouble, was sidelined last year due to a hamstring strain.
In short, there is substantial injury risk throughout the rotation
Beyond health concerns, long-term planning also factors into the equation. While the 2026 staff features depth, several veterans could depart in free agency after the season. Taillon, Imanaga, Boyd, and Colin Rea are all potential free agents, creating uncertainty beyond this year.
Gallen may be coming off a less impressive season, but the Cubs clearly believe in his talent and their ability to help him regain Cy Young-caliber form. The primary sticking point in negotiations is likely the opt-out structure. Gallen would understandably prefer the chance to test the market after one season, while Chicago would prefer more security.
Perhaps a compromise, such as an opt-out after year two, could bridge the gap. For now, the Cubs remain firmly in the mix as the Gallen sweepstakes narrows.