MLB Trade Rumors: Baltimore Orioles connected to $75 million former Cy Young Candidate to bolster 2026 rotation

The Baltimore Orioles are still looking to strengthen their starting rotation before the 2026 season. After failing to sign Framber Valdez, the team has been linked to free-agent pitcher Zac Gallen. No agreement has been reached, but reports continue to describe him as a practical option for a club trying to stay competitive in the AL East.Gallen became a free agent after seven seasons with Arizona. His numbers dipped in 2025, yet his overall record suggests he can still pitch at a high level. For Baltimore, the decision comes down to whether his long-term consistency outweighs concerns from last season.

Why this would be a signing, not a trade

Gallen is not under contract, so Baltimore would only need to sign him. Arizona would not receive players in return. There has been some speculation about a sign-and-trade structure that could allow the Diamondbacks to gain draft compensation or minor-league talent if they waive qualifying-offer rights, but nothing has developed beyond discussion.

Expected contract range

Early projections place Gallen’s value around four years and $75-80 million, with an average salary close to $19-20 million. Because of his uneven 2025 season and the draft-pick compensation tied to his signing, Baltimore could prefer a shorter deal with incentives, possibly three to four years with an opt-out after 2027.

What the move would mean for each side

Baltimore Orioles: adding stability at the top

Baltimore’s projected rotation includes Kyle Bradish, Trevor Rogers, Dean Kremer, Tomoyuki Sugano, and Tyler Wells.

Cade Povich and Cody Sedlock provide depth. Gallen would likely join Bradish at the front of the rotation.

What Baltimore gains

• From 2020 through 2024, Gallen posted a 3.20 ERA and 3.22 FIP across 542 innings with 12.2 WAR and consecutive top-five Cy Young finishes. • He has thrown more than 190 innings in four straight full seasons, including 192.0 in 2025. • Joining a lineup led by Pete Alonso and Adley Rutschman could help push the Orioles closer to serious postseason contention if the bullpen improves.

Zac Gallen: chance to reset his value

Gallen, 30, finished 2025 with a 13-15 record, a 4.83 ERA, and a 1.26 WHIP while striking out 175 batters in 192 innings. His career numbers — a 3.58 ERA and 1.16 WHIP over 1,007.1 innings — still show reliability.

Why Baltimore makes sense

• The Orioles are positioned to compete now with a young core. • Oriole Park at Camden Yards tends to favor pitchers more than Chase Field. • The organization’s focus on analytics and player development could help him improve his command.

Stat snapshot: Zac Gallen vs. projected Baltimore Orioles starters

Gallen’s career ERA and WHIP are stronger than those of the projected Orioles starters. His performance from 2022 to 2024 would immediately improve the top of the rotation.

Benefits and risks for Baltimore

Pros • Creates a strong pairing with Bradish comparable to other AL East rotations. • Helps manage innings with Bradish and Wells returning from major surgeries. • Offers top-level potential if he returns to earlier form.Cons • The 2025 season raised questions about command and durability. • At 30 with more than 1,000 career innings, decline is a possibility during a multi-year contract. • Payroll space and draft compensation might otherwise be used to improve the bullpen or bench.

Market position and player profile

Zac Gallen, born August 3, 1995, is widely viewed as the best starting pitcher still available after Valdez signed with Detroit. The Padres and Cubs have also been connected to him. Signing him would likely cost a first-round pick unless Arizona waives the requirement, which could lead Baltimore Orioles to seek a flexible contract.

My two cents on this mock trade

For Baltimore, signing Gallen would be a short-term gain if he performs close to his earlier level. The team would add an established starter without giving up core players. Gallen would join a contender and could rebuild his value for another contract later in his career. Arizona would lose a developed pitcher but gain financial flexibility or future assets.Also read: MLB trade rumors: Philadelphia Phillies could turn to $56 million Miami Marlins after missing on Bo Bichette for strong starter and improve rotationIn a competitive division, adding Gallen could influence the standings if his performance improves.