The Los Angeles Dodgers have emerged as the frontrunners to acquire Detroit Tigers pitcher Tarik Skubal, according to reports from Saturday night. The New York Yankees and Milwaukee Brewers are also actively engaged in trade talks with Detroit for the two-time reigning AL Cy Young Award winner.
The sense among sources on Saturday was that a deal could be finalized before the Monday deadline. Despite the Tigers' current standing, just 3 1/2 games out of a wild card spot and six games under .500, they were reportedly assessing offers and asking teams for their desired return for Skubal earlier on Saturday.
To pursue Skubal, the Dodgers have removed outfield prospects Zyhir Hope and Kendall George from their Double-A game. While teams often prefer to protect pitching prospects in such negotiations, the Dodgers' willingness to discuss these two players indicates significant interest.
The Yankees have remained engaged in discussions, even after learning the Tigers' initial asking price: two major league players, including a starting pitcher, and two minor league prospects. It is not believed that Detroit has requested the Yankees' top prospect, George Lombard Jr.
If the Yankees were to acquire Skubal, it would bolster an already strong pitching rotation, potentially allowing them to use another starter as trade bait for much-needed offensive support. However, the Yankees are not considered the favorites, with the Dodgers and potentially the Brewers viewed as having a stronger position.
The Brewers, possessing one of baseball's top farm systems, are seen as capable of assembling a high-value package to potentially pair Skubal with pitcher Jacob Misioroski.
Skubal is currently under contract through the end of the season and is a free agent afterward. He underwent a procedure to remove bone chips from his elbow earlier this year. Since returning, he has made nine starts, posting a 2.87 ERA.