Zac Gallen Contract Talks Embarrass, Spare Cubs
Controversy arose when Chicago baseball insider Bruce Levine speculated about Zac Gallen potentially signing with the Cubs. Despite Levine’s insistence, recent developments reveal that Gallen will remain with the Arizona Diamondbacks. This decision comes after a disappointing 2025 season for the 30-year-old pitcher.
Zac Gallen’s Contract Situation
Gallen’s recent performance significantly impacted his contract negotiations. He ended the 2025 season with one of the worst records of his career. Notably, during his decline, the free-agent market tightened considerably, which affected his prospects of landing a lucrative deal.
Why the Cubs Were Interested
The Cubs expressed genuine interest in acquiring Gallen for two main reasons:
- His historical performance as a two-time Cy Young Award finalist.
- The potential advantage of a friendly contract to support future team dynamics, especially with three veteran starters becoming free agents in 2027.
However, Gallen’s plummeting market value ultimately limited the Cubs’ options. Reports indicated that the team was reluctant to pursue a deal that could potentially cost them a draft pick.
Gallen’s Decision to Re-sign with the Diamondbacks
On February 14, 2026, Gallen signed a one-year contract worth $22.025 million with the Diamondbacks. This figure aligns closely with the qualifying offer he previously rejected. Staying in Arizona allows Gallen an opportunity to regain his market value before the next free-agency period.
It is important to note that since Gallen was already with the Diamondbacks, they do not face any penalties related to the draft after this signing.
Implications for the Cubs
While the relationship between Gallen and the Cubs garnered media attention, the reality of his situation casts doubt on reports of a potential signing. Levine’s eager promotion of the Gallen-to-Cubs narrative may now come off as miscalculated.
In conclusion, Gallen’s decision to remain with the Diamondbacks underscores the complexities of MLB contract negotiations. As teams adjust their strategies, the Cubs may need to explore other options for bolstering their starting rotation in the upcoming seasons.
