The Baltimore Orioles are once again connected to the top end of the free-agent pitching market as spring training approaches, and a familiar name has entered the conversation.
MLB insider Jon Heyman reported that the Orioles are “in on” Zac Gallen, placing Baltimore among a short list of teams showing interest that also includes the Chicago Cubs and a potential reunion with the Arizona Diamondbacks. With pitchers and catchers set to report soon, the timing suggests Gallen’s market could be nearing a turning point.
Baltimore’s interest comes as the club continues to explore ways to upgrade its rotation. The Orioles have spent much of the winter linked to Framber Valdez, widely viewed as the top remaining starter on the market. While reporting has indicated the Orioles have made an offer, Valdez appears to be holding out for a stronger deal, keeping alternative options very much in play.
Gallen represents one of those alternatives—and perhaps the most realistic pivot if negotiations with Valdez stall.
Why Gallen Remains in Play for Baltimore
A year ago, Gallen looked poised for a major payday. He entered free agency coming off three straight seasons with an ERA of 3.65 or better and Cy Young votes in three of the previous five years. That trajectory took a hit in 2025, when he posted a 4.83 ERA and saw his strikeout rate decline for a third consecutive season.
Those numbers help explain why Gallen remains unsigned, despite turning down a qualifying offer from Arizona. The down season added risk to his profile and an extra layer of cost for any team willing to sign him. Still, evaluators around the league view him as more than just a rebound candidate.
Gallen finished the 2025 season on a far more encouraging note, posting a 3.97 ERA in the second half after struggling early. That late improvement has fueled optimism that mechanical tweaks or health adjustments could allow him to return closer to his previous form in 2026.
For the Orioles, that risk-reward balance fits neatly into their broader strategy. Baltimore has shown a willingness to spend selectively but remains disciplined about long-term commitments. Gallen would likely come at a lower price point than Valdez, while still offering frontline upside if he rebounds.
There’s also a leverage element at play. Heyman’s report may reflect genuine interest from Baltimore, but it could just as easily serve as positioning. The Orioles can signal to Valdez’s camp that they have other viable options, while Gallen’s representatives can point to multiple suitors to strengthen their negotiating position with Arizona or Chicago.
That dynamic has defined much of Gallen’s free agency. Early reports suggested he was close to a deal with the Cubs before those claims were quickly disputed. Now, with Baltimore emerging more clearly as a contender, the picture remains fluid.
How Gallen Fits the Orioles’ Broader Strategy
From the Orioles’ perspective, patience still makes sense. The front office doesn’t need to resolve the rotation picture immediately, but it does need clarity before camp opens. Whether that clarity comes via Valdez, Gallen, or another arm entirely remains uncertain.
What is clear is that Baltimore continues to cast a wide net. Being “in on” Gallen doesn’t guarantee a signing, but it does confirm that the Orioles remain active and flexible as they look to solidify a rotation capable of supporting another postseason push.
As spring training nears, Gallen’s decision could come quickly—and the Orioles appear determined to stay involved until it does.
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