Two-time Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal‘s future on the Detroit Tigers has been one of the biggest stories in the MLB all season. Detroit has not had a pretty campaign through the early portion of the season, amplifying trade rumors.
It’s no secret that Skubal’s relationship with the Tigers hasn’t been ideal and he’s expected to sign elsewhere next winter, so it would make sense for the Tigers to get whatever they can in return for Skubal if they fall out of the playoff picture.
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In fairness, we’re only a third of the way through this season and the Tigers could still find themselves in a wild card situation.
Skubal is currently recovering from a procedure he had on his elbow to remove loose bodies from the joint in early May, but his expected return in mid-June may not be enough to save a team that currently sits at 22-37. They are 4-20 since he went down.
“I would think they try to move him at the Deadline if they are this far out of contention,” a National League executive told MLB.com. “They know they are not going to sign him, so you have to do what’s best for the organization.”
Naturally, Skubal’s health will be a major factor for potential suitors. If Skubal has proven to be healthy at the trade deadline in August, the Tigers should have a number of teams calling.
The Los Angeles Dodgers are almost always in the mix for these discussions, given their enormous payroll. A deal to acquire Skubal would strengthen an already elite Dodgers pitching rotation.
The Milwaukee Brewers are reportedly another potential destination and a starting tandem of Skubal and Jacob Misiorowski would be intriguing to say the least.
Regardless of the destination, this season spiraling quickly and Detroit might need to wave the white flag on the year and make a move that’s oriented towards future success.
James Parker is a sports writer for Ball Exclusives, follow him on X @TheJames_Parker
