While most of the MLB free agent signings have settled, a few key players remain in the spotlight, particularly Arizona Diamondbacks’ right-hander Zac Gallen. At 30 years old, Gallen just wrapped up a 2025 season with a career-high 4.83 ERA, but throughout his time in the majors since 2019, he has established himself as one of the top starting pitchers and a reliable ace. He could be a critical addition for any pitching staff seeking improvement.
If Gallen chooses to leave Arizona, these three teams stand out as his likely destinations:
The Baltimore Orioles have been searching for a true ace since Corbin Burnes departed last offseason. Bringing in Gallen could ease some concerns about their rotation’s front end. Last season, Baltimore’s starting pitchers struggled, ranking near the bottom in opponent batting average (.265), ERA (4.65), and WHIP (1.32). Gallen, known for his four-seam fastball and knuckle curve complemented by a changeup, was a dependable workhorse and anchor on the Diamondbacks’ 2023 National League pennant-winning team.
Paired with left-hander Trevor Rogers—who posted an outstanding 1.81 ERA in 18 starts last season—and new addition Shane Baz, Gallen would give the Orioles a credible rotation core. Further bolstered by star first baseman Pete Alonso and outfielder Taylor Ward, who hit a career-high 36 homers last season, Baltimore is shaping up to compete strongly in the AL East. However, given their recent moves in pitching, including trading Buzz and re-signing Zach Eflin, the Orioles might also consider pursuing a more consistent ace like Framber Valdez or explore a blockbuster deal, such as acquiring Tarik Skubal from Detroit.
Meanwhile, the San Francisco Giants, caught in a competitive National League West alongside the and Padres, have enough talent to target a postseason run but need to deepen their rotation. Gallen’s consistency—averaging a 3.20 ERA and 1.09 WHIP from 2022 to 2024—would address the Giants’ weaknesses, as their rotation ranked low in WHIP (1.34) and opponent batting average (.255) last year. With veterans Tyler Marr and Adrian Hauser already added this offseason, a rotation combining Logan Webb, Robbie Ray, and Gallen would be formidable. Given their recent high-profile signings and trades, the Giants appear closer to contending than rebuilding, and Gallen’s addition could significantly boost their playoff chances.
Lastly, the Oakland Athletics are on the verge of becoming a playoff team next season, and an upgraded starting rotation featuring Gallen would align perfectly with Coach Gallen’s vision. Despite winning just 76 games last year, Oakland boasts a strong young position player core, including Nick Kurtz, Tyler Soderstrom, Jacob Wilson, Shea Langeliers, and Lawrence Butler, plus two-time All-Star Brent Rooker. Their offense ranked among the league’s best in slugging percentage, hits, and batting average. On the pitching side, the Athletics’ rotation was middle-of-the-pack in key stats but lacked a true ace. Adding Gallen would provide stability and veteran postseason experience, easing pressure on younger pitchers like Jacob Lopez and JT Ginn while complementing the efforts of recent free agent signing Luis Severino and lefty Jeffrey Springs.
In summary, Zac Gallen represents a valuable asset for any team looking to strengthen their rotation with an experienced and proven starter, making him one of the most intriguing free agents remaining.
Fan Take:
Zac Gallen’s potential move could reshape the competitive landscape of several MLB divisions, injecting fresh energy and balance into pitching staffs that need it most. For fans, his signing isn’t just about bolstering a team’s rotation—it symbolizes how crucial pitching remains in the pursuit of postseason glory and could dramatically impact the excitement of next season’s pennant races.
