The annual MLB general manager meetings are officially underway, and that means the Tarik Skubal free agent sweepstakes have started. The two-time Cy Young Award winner is by far the best player available on the open market. That fact would usually mean a lengthy bidding war between interested teams. However, with a lockout expected to start on Dec. 1, there is a belief the Detroit Tigers product could come off the board in the next week.
With that in mind, let’s take a look at the realistic and rumored contenders in the Skubal free agent sweepstakes.
8. Detroit Tigers
8Jul 23, 2018; Kansas City, MO, USA; A general view of a Detroit Tigers cap and glove on the dugout railing, prior to a game against the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Peter G. Aiken/USA TODAY Sports
During his six and a half seasons in Mo-Town, Skubal put together a resume that has him among the greatest pitchers to ever wear a Tigers uniform. He didn’t want to leave, nor did the fanbase want him to go. But being traded to the Los Angeles Dodgers this year was another example of teams not being able to afford to keep the star they developed.
However, they did make a sizable offer for the talented pitcher before this season. While it is highly unlikely, ownership could realize the franchise is far better off with him, no matter the cost, and make a bigger and bolder offer this month.
7. Chicago White Sox
8Apr 27, 2018; Kansas City, MO, USA; The baseball cap of Chicago White Sox first baseman Jose Abreu pays tribute to teammate Danny Faquhar (43) before a game against the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Peter G. Aiken/USA TODAY Sports
The Chicago White Sox were the biggest feel-good story in MLB this year. Two years ago, they lost 121 games. In 2026, they nearly won the American League Central. After years of suffering, they have the pieces to be a competitive team in the years ahead. Signing Skubal would supercharge their growth and place them among the AL’s elites.
Owner Jerry Reinsdorf has not spent big on his club in a long time. However, Chicago has been mentioned as a suitor for Skubal in recent reports. With his team on the rise, maybe now is when the White Sox bosses finally reinvest in his franchise.
6. Atlanta Braves
8Aug 13, 2022; Miami, Florida, USA; A general view of the cap and glove of Atlanta Braves first baseman Matt Olson (28) on the dugout steps in the ninth inning against the Miami Marlins at loanDepot park. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports
The Atlanta Braves are one of the most well-run organizations in MLB. They are smart with their money and don’t overextend their finances. Giving Skubal a potential 10-year deal worth over $400 million would be out of character for the team.
However, they are not far from being a serious title contender. A combo of Skubal and Chris Sale at the top of the rotation would be fantastic for a couple of seasons. Then Skubal could succeed the 10-time All-Star as their undisputed ace. On paper, offering Skubal a record deal would be good for the Braves on and off the field.
5. New York Yankees
8Jun 14, 2025; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; A general view of a New York Yankees cap on the dugout railing prior to a game against the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-Imagn Images
Despite being the franchise that helped to create the massive payroll divide in MLB, New York Yankees governor Hal Steinbrenner has talked about lowering payroll in recent years. However, a report last month from Kiley McDaniel suggested the Pinstripes are actually considering a pursuit of the superstar pitcher.
While it isn’t likely, the Yankees can never, ever be ruled out in free agency. The draw of playing for the legendary club can never be underestimated, especially if they are a legit title contender like this team is. A potential signing would also allow New York to trade from their talent-rich starting rotation to address other areas for a title run in 2027.
4. Chicago Cubs
8Mar 19, 2017; Mesa, AZ, USA; A Chicago Cubs cap sits in the dugout during the fifth inning against the Kansas City Royals at Sloan Park. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
While a report this week claimed the Chicago Cubs will not be involved in the Tarik Skubal free agent chase, we don’t believe it. The pitcher is the sort of player that could make Chicago a favorite to reach the World Series in 2027.
With this roster in striking distance of competing for a championship in an upcoming season, Chicago will reconsider their stance and check in on the cost of a Skubal contract over the next week.
3. Los Angeles Angels
8Sep 4, 2026; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Los Angeles Angels hat and glove in the dugout before the game against the Pittsburgh Pirates at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images
The moment Los Angeles Angels fans have waited years for occurred this year when long-time owner Arte Moreno sold the team to Stan Kroenke. However, not only did Angels supporters get a new owner, but they also got one of the richest in the sport.
On a competitive level, LA is the least appealing contender. However, money always talks, especially with Scott Boras as Skubal’s agent. If the Angels make the best offer — and they can and should — it would be surprising if the pitcher doesn’t take it.
2. Los Angeles Dodgers
8May 13, 2017; Denver, CO, USA; General view the Los Angeles Dodgers cap and glove during the ninth inning against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
The Dodgers trading for Skubal seemed like a situation of renting a great player to chase a historic third straight championship. Keeping him was unlikely. But at this point, can you really underestimate LA?
The Dodgers being angry about their failure could motivate them to do what they do best. Which is to spend on elite talent every offseason. If a new CBA punishes their expensive payroll, they have players they can trade for a nice return, while also lightening their expenses.
1. New York Mets
8Aug 8, 2024; Denver, Colorado, USA; A New York Mets hat and glove in the dugout in the second inning against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports
After an absolutely disastrous showing in 2026, the New York Mets are highly motivated to get back into the playoffs in 2027, and every season after that. Yes, they already have a bloated payroll and should try to offload contracts, but Skubal is a generational talent, just like Juan Soto. The two-time All-Star is a losing skid stopper and immediately elevates their entire staff.
While owner Steve Cohen would prefer to build from within, he won’t be able to help himself this month and is sure to make a strong push to sign the ace pitcher. It’s probably why MLB insider Jon Heyman called the Mets the current favorites on Tuesday.
After earning his journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos served as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sucka … More about Jason Burgos