Rival GM Believes Cubs Are Most Likely to Sign Zac Gallen

Insider reveals industry speculation that the Cubs have the payroll flexibility and motivation to land the free agent pitcher.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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According to baseball insider Bruce Levine, a rival general manager told him that the Chicago Cubs are viewed as the most likely destination for free agent pitcher Zac Gallen. The GM cited the Cubs' payroll flexibility, their need for starting pitching, and Gallen's potential fit as reasons why the Cubs remain the frontrunner despite recent reports that they are unlikely to sign him.

Why it matters

The Cubs are in the midst of an offseason roster overhaul, with several key starting pitchers set to depart via free agency. Landing Gallen, a former All-Star, could provide a major boost to their rotation and help them remain competitive in the NL Central.

The details

Levine reported that the rival GM believes the Cubs are the most likely landing spot for Gallen due to their payroll flexibility and the fact that they are losing multiple starters in free agency next year. While the Cubs were previously reported to be unlikely to sign Gallen due to the timing and draft pick compensation, this new intel suggests the team may still be very much in the mix.

  • The comments from the rival GM were made this week during spring training festivities in Arizona.

The players

Zac Gallen

A free agent starting pitcher who is still available on the market despite coming off one of the worst seasons of his career in 2025.

Bruce Levine

A baseball insider who has been pushing the narrative of the Cubs signing Gallen all offseason.

Chicago Cubs

The MLB team that is reportedly the frontrunner to sign Gallen according to a rival GM.

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What they’re saying

“I talked to one general manager outside the Cubs' organization and he told me he thought the Cubs were still the most likely to sign Gallen because of the fact they have the payroll flexibility to get it done, they'd be more creative to get it done, and the Cubs are losing three guys in their rotation through free agency next year.”

— Bruce Levine, Baseball Insider (104.3 The Score)

What’s next

The Cubs will need to decide in the coming days and weeks whether they want to pursue Gallen aggressively and offer him a multi-year deal, or if they view him as more of a one-year lottery ticket option given his down 2025 season.

The takeaway

The Cubs' need for starting pitching and their reported payroll flexibility make them an intriguing potential landing spot for Gallen, who could provide a major boost to their rotation if they are able to sign him. However, the team's level of interest remains uncertain, and they will have to weigh the risks and rewards of pursuing the former All-Star.