Medical Uncertainty Around Skubal Tempers Market and Trade Buzz

Overview

• Detroit ace Tarik Skubal had arthroscopic surgery to remove loose bodies in his left elbow, and his agent says a needle-sized “Skubal scope” was used to reduce pain and swelling for a quicker rehab.
• Projections point to a possible late June or early July return, though that timetable remains tentative while he works back from the procedure.
• Former GM Jim Bowden said clubs will require thorough MRIs of Skubal’s elbow and shoulder to rule out ligament or related damage before making major offers.
• MLB insider Jon Heyman reported the Tigers are unlikely to trade Skubal this season because the team intends to keep pushing for the playoffs.
• ESPN’s Kiley McDaniel has suggested the injury could steer him toward a shorter deal with opt-outs, with big spenders such as the Yankees and Dodgers watching given his 2.70 ERA over seven starts this year.