Overview
- Late‑June reports show Skubal is the most sought‑after arm for the Aug. 3 deadline after returning from elbow arthroscopy and pitching effectively with about a 3.02 ERA this season.
- Detroit has publicly said it wants controllable pitchers and athletic, near‑big‑league‑ready position players in any Skubal deal, a stance that raises the cost for buyers.
- USA Today’s Bob Nightengale and multiple outlets identify the Atlanta Braves as a sleeper suitor who could be asked for two top‑10 prospects including a top‑100 prospect.
- Other likely bidders named across coverage include the Dodgers, Yankees, Phillies, Padres, Brewers, Rays and Blue Jays, but teams vary in their ability to meet Detroit’s specific demands.
- Insiders note two gating factors for a trade: Detroit’s stretch toward contention over the next six weeks and Skubal’s status as a Scott Boras client who is expected to test free agency if not extended.