The Boston Red Sox have made some key pitching additions this offseason, but there are still some pitchers on the open market who could help their team.
Right now, the Red Sox figure to have Garrett Crochet, Sonny Gray, Brayan Bello and Johan Oviedo leading their rotation. For the fifth spot, they could turn to Connelly Early, Tanner Houck, Payton Tolle or Kyle Harrison. However, Zac Gallen is available and could be a solid option as their No. 5 starter.
Gallen is a former All-Star and has spent the last seven seasons with the Arizona Diamondbacks. He did not have the best season this year, but if his free agency drags out, he could be available on a shorter deal, hoping to re-establish some value.
As free agency drags on, the chances of Gallen finding a long-term deal decrease, especially after he posted a 4.83 ERA this year. A year with the Red Sox could be beneficial for Gallen and the Red Sox.
He could slot in as the final arm in their rotation and look to bounce back. Meanwhile, the Red Sox could allow their younger arms more time to develop before becoming key pitchers in the rotation in 2027.
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Gallen has a 3.58 ERA in 176 career starts. Going into last season, he had a 3.29 ERA in 143 games. Many expected Gallen to earn a long-term deal this winter before last season began. However, a down year may have changed his outlook.
If Gallen gets a long-term deal to his liking, he will likely take it. However, if spring training gets close and Gallen remains unsigned, the Red Sox should jump on the opportunity to add him.
He would be inexpensive, likely on a deal with an opt-out. However, the Red Sox coaching staff could help get him back on track, and he could play a key role in helping the Red Sox make a deep run.
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Even though he struggled last season, Gallen ranked in the 86th percentile for offspeed run value. If the Red Sox can get his fastball back to what it was, then Gallen would be more than just a No. 5 starter. At his best, he is one of the best pitchers in baseball.
