The Los Angeles Dodgers’ pursuit of Detroit Tigers ace Tarik Skubal is more than just speculation. Multiple national reporters have confirmed LA is actively monitoring the reigning American League Cy Young Award winner, while Detroit has listened intently, particularly during the Winter Meetings.
Steaming from those meetings, the consensus is, “Yes — the interest is real. The price is the issue.”
Skubal is widely regarded as one of baseball’s elite pitchers, boasting two seasons averaging 193 innings, 234 strikeouts, a 2.30 ERA, and a 0.91 WHIP. Statcast even rated his changeup as the most valuable pitch in the sport last season. The Tigers control him through 2026, leaving contenders with a classic dilemma: trade a premier pitcher now for a historic haul or risk losing him for minimal compensation if he declines a qualifying offer.
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Trade Complexity and Dodgers’ Approach
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A deal for Skubal is complicated. Detroit isn’t inclined to part with him easily, and the Dodgers are unlikely to deplete their farm system for a short-term rental. Tyler Glasnow, initially linked to potential trades, is reportedly off the table, leaving younger arms like Emmet Sheehan or River Ryan as more realistic pieces in a potential package. Multiple prospects, rather than a single frontline starter, would likely be required.
Dodgers executive Andrew Friedman has reportedly been actively exploring options. KTLA’s David Pingalore noted, “Right now, Friedman is trying to work a deal and a major trade for Tarik Skubal.” Similarly, David Vassegh reported that Detroit’s asking price could rival the Padres’ historic Juan Soto trade, highlighting the challenge for Los Angeles.
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Player Perspective and Clubhouse Support
Even inside the Dodgers’ clubhouse, Skubal generates excitement. Tyler Glasnow, speaking on MLB Network Radio, described the reports as “relatively real” and praised Skubal’s fit both on the mound and in the clubhouse. “The Dodgers are really big on signing guys who have plus personalities and are just good in the clubhouse,” Glasnow said.
Bottom Line: Window of Opportunity
The Dodgers have already addressed key roster needs, notably signing elite closer Edwin DĂaz, and they maintain one of baseball’s deepest farm systems. While acquiring Skubal would come at a steep cost, Los Angeles is uniquely positioned to take that risk. With an aging core, high stakes in October, and a chance at a third consecutive World Series, Skubal isn’t just a luxury—he could be a decisive piece for October control.
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