Detroit Tigers pitcher Tarik Skubal is "going to be traded," according to ESPN reporter Jeff Passan, with speculation mounting that the Los Angeles Dodgers are in the strongest position to acquire the left-handed ace. While several contending teams are expected to pursue Skubal, sources suggest the Dodgers' combination of financial resources and a deep farm system positions them favorably.
The Dodgers, seeking to repeat as World Series champions, possess significant trade capital. The team has seven prospects ranked among MLB Pipeline's top 100, including No. 4 prospect Josue De Paula, a five-tool player currently hitting .309 with 15 home runs and 27 stolen bases in Double-A. This depth of talent could enable a move for Skubal, who is a pending free agent after the current season.
Other teams like the Milwaukee Brewers and Tampa Bay Rays are also considered potential suitors, but matching the Dodgers' prospect pedigree is seen as a significant challenge for them. The New York Post notes that while the Dodgers have a crowded outfield, they also face uncertainties in their starting rotation. Blake Snell and Tyler Glasnow are currently on the injured list, and Shohei Ohtani is not pitching due to a knee injury.