Zac Gallen could be Reds’ ideal bounce-back signing if one hurdle can be cleared

Blog Red Machine suggests free-agent pitcher Zac Gallen could serve as a bounce-back target for the Cincinnati Reds this offseason. The 31-year-old right-hander struggled across the 2025 and 2026 seasons with the Arizona Diamondbacks, posting a 6.07 ERA while dealing with elbow inflammation in 2026. Spotrac projects Gallen to sign a one-year, $7.3 million contract, making him an affordable upside candidate for Cincinnati's starting rotation.

However, writer Stephen Parello notes a significant obstacle: Gallen previously voiced strong complaints about Great American Ball Park. During a 2025 podcast appearance, Gallen criticized the stadium's mound as being too flat. Despite these concerns and Gallen's recent struggles with home runs, Parello argues the mutual need could make the signing a practical match for both sides.