Major League Baseball's impending lockout is prompting free agents to secure deals quickly, with top pitcher Tarik Skubal expected to sign before the work stoppage, according to ESPN MLB insider Jeff Passan.
The league is facing a lockout less than a month from now, and Skubal, a seven-year veteran and two-time Cy Young Award winner, is reportedly on the verge of making a decision.
Passan reported that Skubal is considered the best player in the current free-agent class and is anticipated to sign before the Dec. 1 lockout. Potential suitors include the Los Angeles Dodgers and New York Mets, both of whom have high payrolls. However, the Chicago Cubs and San Diego Padres are also strong contenders. Passan noted the Cubs' significant interest in Skubal.
The Padres' pursuit is reportedly intensified by recent contract decisions by other pitchers. Michael King opted out of his deal last week, and the team also declined Nick Pivetta's contract after he spent much of the previous season on the injured list, creating openings in their rotation.
Skubal's next contract is projected to exceed $300 million and could potentially reach over $400 million. The Dodgers acquired Skubal at the trade deadline last season, where he posted a 2.61 ERA in 10 appearances, with 70 strikeouts and only 13 walks. He also made two playoff appearances for the Dodgers, pitching 11 innings with 14 strikeouts and three earned runs. Skubal had expressed flexibility during the playoffs, stating he would be willing to pitch from the bullpen if needed.