Zac Gallen, once a standout pitcher for the Arizona Diamondbacks and a 2023 National League Cy Young Award finalist, is experiencing a challenging 2025 season marked by a 5.58 ERA and 1.36 WHIP. Despite impressive strikeout numbers, his recent performance has declined, leading to discussions about a potential Zac Gallen Cubs trade prospects that could benefit both sides. The Chicago Cubs, seeking to bolster their pitching rotation ahead of the playoffs, might offer the fresh environment Gallen needs to rediscover his form.
Assessing Gallen’s Recent Performance and Potential Role with the Cubs
Gallen, aged 29 and approaching his 30th birthday in August, showed strong results in 2023 with a 3.47 ERA and 1.12 WHIP. However, his current struggles underscore a need for change. The Cubs’ rotation ranks 23rd in strikeouts per nine innings, and Gallen’s strikeout ability could serve as a valuable addition. Though his recent statistics are not reflective of his peak, his underlying talents might make him a suitable candidate to strengthen Chicago’s pitching staff.
The Cubs’ Urgent Need for Pitching Ahead of the Trade Deadline
The Chicago Cubs have slipped from first place in the National League Central, largely due to pitching struggles, allowing 37 runs in their last four defeats. With this backdrop, the team is expected to prioritize reinforcing its starting rotation at the upcoming MLB trade deadline. Gallen’s potential availability comes at a time when the Cubs need to add quality arms to improve their postseason chances. Bleacher Report’s Tim Kelly noted the Cubs’ situation and proposed Gallen as a viable target.
“The Cubs are a team in win-now mode given Kyle Tucker can become a free agent after this season,”
—Tim Kelly, Bleacher Report
“They have a strong one-two starting rotation punch with Shota Imanaga and Matthew Boyd, but they could use another frontline option to take the ball for them in the postseason. Gallen, when he’s right, fits that bill.”
—Tim Kelly, Bleacher Report
Trade Considerations and Future Impact
Given Gallen’s recent performance difficulties, the cost for acquiring him may be lower than initially expected at the season’s start. The Cubs might find a trade feasible that adds a frontline pitcher without sacrificing significant assets. If the trade happens and Gallen regains his previous form, it could significantly enhance Chicago’s pitching depth and elevate their competitiveness this season. The team’s management is likely monitoring this and other pitching options closely as the deadline approaches.
Looking Ahead: What This Could Mean for Gallen and the Cubs
If Zac Gallen joins the Cubs, he will gain the fresh start many players need to revive their careers, while Chicago would receive a potential ace for their playoff push. The move could revitalize Gallen’s trajectory and provide a crucial boost to a rotation that has struggled this year. The trade deadline will reveal how aggressively the Cubs pursue pitching reinforcements and whether Gallen can reclaim his status as a top National League starter.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why do they call Zac Gallen the milk man?
A. Fans call Gallen “The Milkman” because he never fails to meet expectations. On Thursday, he provided a vital contribution to St. Mary’s Food Bank. Gallen joined forces with the food bank to give away 2,300 gallons of milk from Shamrock Farms, a local business.