Skubal’s Elite Level Has Drawn Attention for 2026 Offseason
The New York Mets and Los Angeles Dodgers are seen as logical destinations for Tarik Skubal. The Detroit Tigers have been rumored to be open to trading their ace, as he’s set to hit the open market next Winter. Skubal is going to bring back an absolute haul, making the list of teams willing to acquire his services next year extremely limited.
Dodgers Frontrunners For Skubal
The reality is, the Dodgers are uniquely positioned to both trade for and sign Tarik Skubal to a historic long-term deal. They’re never out of the running for any big name in baseball, and Skubal would further strengthen their already elite rotation. Meanwhile, the Detroit Tigers know they can’t compete in negotiations for Skubal unless he’s willing to accept a significant hometown discount.
His recent achievements have only increased his value on the trade market. He became the first pitcher to win consecutive Cy Young Awards since Jacob deGrom (2018-2019 with the Mets), and the first in the American League since Pedro Martinez with the Red Sox.
The New York Mets are often mentioned as a logical landing spot for Skubal, but it’s hard to imagine David Stearns giving up multiple top prospects for just one year of Skubal—especially with other pressing needs on the roster. Plus, two above-average left-handed starters, Framber Valdez and Ranger Suarez, are still available on the open market, which perfectly fit what the Mets are looking for. While the Dodgers remain in a prime position to land him, the Mets have a ton of young talent to offer.
Will The Tigers Trade Him?
There was a lot of buzz at the Winter Meetings that a deal between the Dodgers and Tigers was nearing completion, but ultimately, nothing came together. This offseason has seen few significant trades or free agent signings, largely because teams have balked at the steep asking prices. Ketel Marte and Brendan Donovan have been among the top names on the trading block, but their price tags remain sky-high.
If teams haven’t struck a deal for either of these two infielders, it’s hard to imagine what the Tigers are demanding in return for Tarik Skubal. With Spring Training still a ways off, the clock is ticking for a potential trade—though nothing appears close yet. The Dodgers have the assets to make a deal happen, but they must be cautious about how much they surrender and likely want Skubal to agree to an extension as part of any agreement.
Detroit remains projected as one of the top teams in the American League next year and is favored to win its division. While a trade for their ace still seems unlikely, the Tigers unfortunately lack the financial muscle to match offers next offseason. Moving him now could help Detroit avoid losing Skubal for nothing and bring in valuable, young, affordable talent.
