The Los Angeles Dodgers have acquired pitcher Tarik Skubal from the Detroit Tigers in a significant trade, according to reports. The deal sends three prospects, including highly-rated outfielder Zyhir Hope, to Detroit in exchange for the back-to-back American League Cy Young Award winner.
Skubal, 27, is set to become a free agent this offseason. He is owed the remainder of his $32 million salary for the current season. Due to the trade occurring mid-season, Skubal will not be eligible to receive a qualifying offer from the Dodgers.
This move significantly strengthens the Dodgers' already formidable pitching rotation as they position themselves for another World Series run. The Dodgers, who currently hold a 10-game lead in the National League West with a 69-42 record, were considered favorites to win the championship even before the acquisition.
The Tigers, meanwhile, are shipping Skubal to Los Angeles while sitting just 2.5 games out of an American League Wild Card spot. This decision has reportedly left Detroit fans stunned, as the team appears to be moving a key player while still in contention for a postseason berth.
Skubal underwent arthroscopic elbow surgery in May after making seven starts for Detroit. He returned to pitching in mid-June after a six-month recovery period. In his starts this season, Skubal has a 7-5 record.
The prospects sent to Detroit include Zyhir Hope, a 21-year-old outfielder currently ranked as the No. 25 prospect in Major League Baseball by MLB. The other players involved in the trade are right-handed relievers Brady Smith and River Ryan.
Skubal made his last start for the Tigers on July 29. His debut with the Dodgers could come during their upcoming three-game series against the Chicago Cubs, beginning Monday.