The Los Angeles Dodgers continue to be a prominent player in discussions surrounding top pitching talent, with the latest spotlight on Detroit Tigers ace Tarik Skubal. MLB.com has identified Skubal as the leading pitcher among seven who could potentially be traded this offseason, further solidifying the Dodgers’ position as a formidable contender for his services.
Despite the Winter Meetings passing without significant trades involving elite starters, interest in Skubal remains high. The Tigers are open to offers as they face a critical decision regarding their star pitcher. With control over Skubal through 2026 via arbitration, the franchise must weigh the option of trading their ace now for a substantial return versus the risk of losing him for minimal compensation if he opts to decline a qualifying offer next year.
Skubal’s impressive stats bolster his trade appeal: over the last two seasons, he has averaged 193 innings, tallied 234 strikeouts, maintained a remarkable 2.30 ERA, and a minuscule 0.91 WHIP. Last season, he was recognized by Statcast as MLB’s most valuable pitcher in terms of run value, and his changeup has been deemed the most effective pitch in the league. Any team acquiring him would not merely enhance its pitching rotation but also signal a serious intention to compete for the World Series title in the coming years.
The complexities of trading for Skubal are evident, particularly as he is represented by super-agent Scott Boras, who typically allows his clients to enter free agency. This factor necessitates that any interested team, including the Dodgers, be willing to pay a high price in prospects for potentially just one season and a postseason run.
The Dodgers have consistently remained in the conversation surrounding Skubal due to their competitive advantage. With their recent acquisition of closer Edwin Díaz addressing a major need, an impressive farm system, and a financial framework that allows them to take on such risks, Los Angeles is well-positioned to pursue high-caliber talent.
Reports from insiders suggest the Tigers’ asking price for Skubal is akin to the substantial package the San Diego Padres provided to the Washington Nationals for Juan Soto, despite Skubal being considered a one-year rental. Dodgers insider David Vassegh has reported that Dodgers’ president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman has been actively trying to negotiate a deal for Skubal, reflecting the franchise’s history of seizing opportunities to acquire elite players.
Tyler Glasnow, a player within the Dodgers’ ranks, expressed his belief in Skubal as an ideal addition, highlighting the serious nature of the team’s interest in securing his talents. While any deal would come at a steep cost, the Dodgers recognize the importance of long-term success. With an aging roster, a rotation that includes both top-tier talent and injury-prone players, and aspirations of clinching a third consecutive World Series title, adding Skubal would not just be a luxury but rather a crucial move for their October ambitions.
MLB.com’s deliberate emphasis on Skubal as the top trade target should send a clear message: when elite talent comes onto the market, the Dodgers have shown time and again that they are intent on making their moves rather than remaining passive bystanders.