Braves Seek Rotation Reinforcement with Zac Gallen in Sight
The Atlanta Braves are actively searching for ways to bolster their starting rotation, and right-hander Zac Gallen has emerged as a potential target. MLB.com’s Andrew Simon describes Gallen as an ideal fit for the Braves, a sentiment echoed by The Athletic’s Jim Bowden, who highlighted him as a prime signing during the Winter Meetings. However, as of now, there are no concrete rumors linking the Braves to Gallen. Speculation will likely persist until a deal comes to fruition.
Gallen’s Workhorse Credentials
Gallen’s appeal lies in his durability; he has proven to be a workhorse on the mound. Over the last four seasons, he has made at least 31 starts and pitched a minimum of 184 innings in three of those years, including a season where he surpassed the 200-inning mark. Although he missed a month during the early part of the 2024 season, his overall reliability as a starting pitcher is hard to overlook.
Yet, the Braves must weigh whether Gallen’s current form justifies the investment. After showing signs of regression in each of the past two seasons, Gallen’s home run rate surged last year, with 31 long balls allowed. Nonetheless, he rebounded somewhat in his final 11 starts, posting a 3.32 ERA and beginning to rein in baserunners, which could indicate a potential for reclamation in a new environment.
Cost Considerations and Boras Factor
Financial implications will play a significant role in any potential deal. Spotrac estimates Gallen’s market value at approximately $18.7 million per season, projecting a four-year contract totaling around $75 million. While this figure may seem manageable, it raises concerns about the Braves’ budget, especially given Gallen’s representation by agent Scott Boras. The Braves already made headlines with their acquisition of Ha-Seong Kim, and adding another major contract could complicate their offseason plans.
Other Potential Targets
As the calendar year approaches its end, the Braves may still have a few surprises up their sleeve. Alongside Gallen, left-hander Framber Valdez has garnered interest, though recent reports have been sparse. Having Martin Maldonado in the front office could provide insights into Valdez’s availability, but that remains uncertain. Additionally, other prominent free-agent pitchers, such as Ranger Suarez and Chris Bassitt, are still on the market, presenting alternative options for the Braves.
While Gallen is a name generating buzz, the Braves’ decision-making will ultimately hinge on balancing the potential reward against the risks and costs involved. With the offseason still unfolding, the organization remains poised to seek out the right fit to strengthen their rotation moving forward.
