The Dodgers’ evolving Tarik Skubal trade talks are picking up undeniable momentum, and insiders say the smoke is starting to look real.NL
The Los Angeles Dodgers trading for Detroit Tigers ace Tarik Skubal has gone from a fever dream to a reputable rumor overnight.
The Winter Meetings saw several teams make moves, with the Philadelphia Phillies bringing back Kyle Schwarber on a five-year, $150 million contract. Pete Alonso left Queens and inked a five-year, $155 million contract with the Baltimore Orioles. The Dodgers, who said they didn’t need to make a “big splash” this offseason, signed the top free agent closer available in Edwin Diaz to a three-year, $69 million contract.
On Day 1 of the Winter Meetings, Tigers president of baseball operations Scott Harris said there were no untouchables on the roster and didn’t explicitly say Skubal would remain in Detroit.
CLEVELAND, OHIO – SEPTEMBER 30: Tarik Skubal #29 of the Detroit Tigers celebrates a strikeout in the seventh inning against the Cleveland Guardians du…
“It’s just really hard to answer the question,” Harris said Monday, “and I’ll tell you why: One, we don’t speculate on any players on our roster in trade talks. It’s just not productive, and it’s unfair to players on other teams.
“Two, I’ve been pretty clear since I’ve been here: I don’t believe in untouchables at any level, anyone in our organization. It’s not a commentary on Tarik specifically, [but] sort of a blanket team-building approach. I can’t do my job without listening. I can’t do my job without exploring anything that may or may not have legs. Some are going to be very likely moves and some are going to be extremely unlikely, but you can’t actually fully vet those opportunities unless you are willing to listen. …
“I don’t know if that’s helpful for you guys, but I figured I’d give you at least some logic behind why we’re taking this approach.”
At the end of the Winter Meetings, it was reported that the Dodgers and Tigers engaged in serious trade talks regarding Skubal in Orlando, further fueling the fire on the widespread rumors. While everyone knows the Dodgers receiving Skubal would headline the trade, there’s still speculation as to what the Tigers would receive in return.
What Would the Dodgers Have to Give Up in Tarik Skubal Trade With Tigers?
The Dodgers would have to give up a fair amount to acquire Skubal this winter, but it would solve some of LA’s pitching depth problems. While starting pitching depth is never a bad thing, the Dodgers don’t have room for everyone on the roster.
Additionally, transitioning from the minors to the big leagues is harder than ever, and it would give Dodgers prospects the opportunity a chance to thrive with another organization.
Dodgers On SI’s Jason Fray laid the groundwork for a potential Dodgers return package in a Skubal trade.
