Sports & Competition
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Tue, February 10, 2026
Cubs Eye Gallen: What Would It Cost?
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Published in Sports and Competition on Tuesday, February 10th 2026 at 14:14 GMT by Sporting NewsLocales: Illinois, Arizona, Texas, Florida, UNITED STATES
Why the Cubs are Interested - and What They Might Offer
The Cubs, under the guidance of President of Baseball Operations Jed Hoyer, have repeatedly expressed their desire to add a top-tier starting pitcher this offseason. While they've been linked to several names, Gallen arguably represents the best combination of proven performance, contract control, and potential upside. The Cubs' current rotation, while improved, still lacks a true number one starter - a player capable of consistently delivering dominant performances and anchoring the staff.
To land Gallen, the Cubs will likely need to package a combination of established major league players and high-ceiling prospects. Potential pieces could include outfielder Ian Happ, who provides both offensive production and defensive versatility, and top pitching prospects like Cade Horton or Matt Mervis. The Diamondbacks, having seen the Cubs rebuild a competitive roster relatively quickly, are likely to target players who can contribute immediately while also fitting into their long-term plans. The Royals, while also in the mix, might be less willing to part with established major leaguers, potentially relying more heavily on prospect-based offers. The Dodgers, with their deep farm system and financial resources, represent perhaps the most formidable competition, potentially able to outbid any other team.
The Broader Pitching Market and its Impact
The competition for Gallen is a symptom of a wider trend in MLB - a scarcity of reliable, controllable starting pitching. Several other teams are actively searching for upgrades, driving up prices and making trades more complex. The recent signings of Blake Snell and Yoshinobu Yamamoto, while expensive, further highlight the premium placed on proven pitching talent. This situation is partially due to the increased emphasis on pitch tracking data and advanced analytics, which have made identifying and developing pitching prospects more challenging.
Furthermore, the increased workloads placed on starting pitchers in recent years have led to a higher injury rate, making depth and durability even more crucial. Teams are now prioritizing pitchers who can consistently eat innings and avoid the injured list. Gallen, despite a slightly injury-prone history, represents a relatively safe bet given his track record and control remaining.
What's Next? The next few weeks will be critical as the Cubs and other suitors attempt to negotiate a deal with the Diamondbacks. The Diamondbacks' asking price will be the key determinant. If they remain steadfast in their demands, it's possible Gallen could remain in Arizona. However, the allure of a significant return, combined with the team's long-term rebuilding goals, suggests a trade is likely to materialize. For the Cubs, acquiring Gallen would instantly elevate their playoff aspirations and establish them as serious contenders in the National League. The pressure is on Hoyer to act decisively and secure a deal before another team swoops in and claims the prize.
Read the Full Sporting News Article at:
[ https://www.sportingnews.com/us/mlb/chicago-cubs/news/cubs-competing-3-mlb-teams-zac-gallen-amid-heating-market/b4234b531ce70916329781da ]
