Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Tarik Skubal has indicated he would be receptive to a reunion with the Detroit Tigers this winter, despite being traded to the Dodgers just ahead of the Aug. 3 deadline.
Skubal, a two-time Cy Young winner, shared his sentiments on the "Pardon My Take" podcast, stating, "I love all those guys, so hopefully they’re involved in November. We’ll see what happens then." The Dodgers acquired Skubal from the Tigers in exchange for three prospects, a move that positioned them as a likely candidate to sign him to a long-term deal as a free agent.
Skubal is projected to seek a contract exceeding $400 million in free agency. While the Dodgers are considered the frontrunners to secure such a deal, Skubal has kept the door open for the team he played with for over six seasons.
Adding complexity to the upcoming offseason is the pending expiration of Major League Baseball's collective bargaining agreement on Dec. 1. Ongoing negotiations between the league and the Players Association regarding a new deal for 2027 and beyond could impact free agency.
Skubal's agent, Scott Boras, commented to the California Post that Skubal's stint with the Dodgers could be mutually beneficial. "It’s great for both the Dodgers and for Tarik that they both get to know one another quite well and determine more about what the future may hold for them," Boras said.
Although the Dodgers may hold an advantage in re-signing Skubal due to the recent trade, the pitcher's comments suggest that the Tigers remain a significant consideration as he approaches free agency.