Arizona Diamondbacks right-hander Zac Gallen (23) pitches against the Cleveland Guardians at Chase Field on Aug. 19, 2025.

Chicago Cubs still in pursuit of free-agent pitcher

Originally posted on ChiCitySports | By Zack Pearson | Last updated Jan 19, 2026 5:27 PM ET

The Chicago Cubs kicked off Cubs Con this past weekend by introducing new free-agent prize Alex Bregman to the thousands of fans who flocked to Chicago for the convention. The addition of Bregman adds a big bat to Chicago’s lineup as they look to bounce back on a NLDS exit in last year’s post season.

But as we are under a month away from Spring Training, the Cubs still have some needs to fill including potentially a starting pitcher.

The Cubs have been connected to a few names this offseason but the one that keeps popping up is Zac Gallen. The former Arizona Diamondbacks ace is a free agent and could be the next addition for Chicago to help boost the rotation even after the acquisition of Edward Cabrera. And it sounds like the Cubs are still very much involved in Gallen.

Chicago Cubs, Scott Boras continue talks about Zac Gallen

This isn’t the first time the Cubs and Gallen have been connected this offseason. It might not be the last, either. After acquiring Cabrera in that trade just a few weeks ago, it may have felt like the Cubs were out on adding Gallen.

Not so fast.

The latest report from Bruce Levine of 670 The Score states that the Cubs have had continued talks with Scott Boras, the agent of Gallen. Levine also notes that as talks are on going, it could be a shorter deal that gets Gallen to Chicago.

“Those talks are ongoing. My reporting is the possibility is that it’ll be a shorter-term type of deal.”

The Cubs and Scott Boras have continued talks on Zac Gallen, per @MLBBruceLevine on 670 the score.

“Those talks are ongoing. My reporting is the possibility is that it’ll be a shorter-term type of deal.” pic.twitter.com/boHb8YX8nM

— Cubs Zone (@CubsZone) January 19, 2026

A short-term deal might be best for both sides. With a potential lockout coming in 2027, Gallen can get paid in 2026 and use it as a prove it year if there is no lockout eventually. For the Cubs, they get another arm in the bullpen and it’s a low-risk signing.

Despite having a down year in 2025 with a 13-15 record and a 4.83 ERA, Gallen was really good for the Diamondbacks. He factored into the NL Cy Young Award voting in 2020, 2022 and the 2023 seasons. He’s also averaged 30 starts a year in the past five seasons.

This article first appeared on ChiCitySports and was syndicated with permission.

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