Astros Generate Offseason Buzz with Focus on Zac Gallen for Rotation Depth
The Houston Astros find themselves at a pivotal moment this offseason, navigating the uncertain future of ace pitcher Framber Valdez. As the landscape of Major League Baseball shifts, the Astros are strategically assessing their options to fortify their rotation.
Valdez’s Potential Departure Raises Questions
Valdez’s impending free agency looms large over the Astros’ plans. If he departs, the front office will face the daunting task of replacing a key component of their pitching staff. With Hunter Brown poised to lead the rotation by 2026, the need for experienced arms in free agency becomes more pressing.
While several options exist, the market is not overflowing with immediate impact players. Beyond Valdez and the San Diego Padres’ Dylan Cease, few names command attention, prompting the Astros to consider pitchers who can provide reliable innings and stability in the middle of their rotation.
Zac Gallen Emerges as a Viable Target
Amidst this backdrop, Arizona Diamondbacks right-hander Zac Gallen has emerged as a potential target for Houston. According to reports, Gallen has garnered interest from the Astros, making him a compelling candidate to fill the void should Valdez leave.
Over the past four seasons, Gallen has established himself as one of the more consistent starters in the league. From 2020 to 2024, he compiled a 50-31 record with a 3.34 ERA across 128 starts. Notably, his performance in 2022 and 2023 was stellar, averaging nearly 200 innings and striking out over 200 batters while maintaining a 3.04 ERA. However, a right hamstring strain in 2024 limited him to 148 innings and impacted his overall numbers. Despite a disappointing season marked by a 4.83 ERA, Gallen’s durability and track record as an innings eater keep him on the radar of teams like Houston.
Experience and Depth in Rotation
Gallen’s ability to provide rotation depth is underscored by his recent performance, where he made at least 20 starts in each of the last five seasons. His contributions were particularly significant during Arizona’s playoff run, where he made six starts en route to the World Series, highlighting his capability in high-pressure situations.
As the Astros look toward 2026, the uncertainty surrounding their rotation without Valdez necessitates proactive measures. With the American League West poised for increased competition, particularly with the Seattle Mariners expected to make aggressive moves this offseason, adding a reliable arm like Gallen could be crucial for the Astros’ aspirations to return to postseason glory after a disappointing campaign.
In a landscape where every inning counts, Zac Gallen stands out as a potential solution to enhance the Astros’ rotation depth and keep their championship window wide open.
