The Detroit Tigers are looking to upgrade the starting rotation this winter. With Tarik Skubal leading the way, Detroit boasts a strong rotation in the AL Central; however, three of its five projected starters are poised to enter free agency after 2026. Therefore, the Tigers are looking for pitching, and one former Cy Young candidate could be a good fit.
According to MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand, the Tigers are among the teams interested in signing Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Zac Gallen in MLB free agency. In 2023, Gallen finished third in voting for the NL Cy Young award after leading Arizona to the World Series.
However, the 30-year-old pitcher had a poor 2025 MLB season, posting a career-high 4.83 ERA and lows in several other categories. The price for Gallen wouldn’t be as high as Ranger Suarez, Framber Valdez, and others, making him a good financial fit for the Tigers.
Detroit was previously connected to Ryan Helsley, who signed with the Baltimore Orioles as a closer after the Tigers tried to turn him back into a starter. Gallen likely needs a new team to recapture his previous form, and the Tigers are known for revitalizing pitching careers.
Read More: Detroit Tigers ‘engaged’ in trade talks involving Tarik Skubal
